Articles tagged with "armored-vehicles"
US Army steps up firepower with 50mm cannon for future combat vehicle
The US Army is advancing its armored modernization by adopting a new 50mm cannon, the XM913, for its future combat vehicle program known as XM30, formerly the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle effort. Northrop Grumman has confirmed orders for 16 of these cannons, with deliveries already underway to the Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM). The XM30 aims to replace the Bradley Fighting Vehicle with a next-generation mechanized infantry platform that significantly enhances lethality, survivability, and upgrade potential. Central to the program is a modular open systems architecture that supports unmanned or remotely operated turrets, advanced sensors, and future weapon integrations. The XM913 cannon features an external drive system for consistent firing and a dual-feed, first-round-select capability, allowing rapid switching between ammunition types. This weapon shares training and maintenance protocols with the existing Bushmaster systems, facilitating faster operational readiness. Although the XM30 will carry fewer rounds than the Bradley, the increased lethality of the
robotmilitary-technologyunmanned-systemsadvanced-weaponryarmored-vehiclesdefense-technologyfire-control-systemsSouth Korea equips main battle tanks with improvised anti-drone cages
South Korea is actively testing improvised anti-drone cage armor on its K2 Black Panther main battle tanks to counter the growing threat posed by inexpensive first-person-view (FPV) drones and loitering munitions. Recent images from a live-fire training exercise show the tanks fitted with rectangular lattice structures—commonly known as “cope cages”—mounted above the turret roof. These metal mesh frames create a stand-off gap designed to disrupt top-attack munitions or drone-delivered explosive charges without interfering with the tank’s primary functions, such as firing its 4.7-inch L55 smoothbore gun. The experiments reflect a broader global trend where armies have added similar protective lattices to frontline armor in response to increased drone threats, especially highlighted by recent conflicts like the Russian-Ukrainian war. The cage covers critical areas such as the turret and crew hatches, potentially reducing damage from aerial attacks. Live-fire testing indicates that crews are adapting to the added weight and altered visibility
robotmilitary-technologydrone-defensearmored-vehiclesanti-drone-cagesbattlefield-innovationSouth-Korea-defenseRussia’s new flamethrower blasts drones across 500,000 sq ft in seconds
Russia has recently delivered a new batch of upgraded TOS-1A Solntsepyok heavy flamethrower systems to its armed forces, featuring enhanced anti-drone defenses developed from battlefield experience. Built on a T-72 tank chassis, these systems underwent extensive field trials to verify mechanical reliability, targeting accuracy, and operational effectiveness under varied conditions. The TOS-1A, armed with thermobaric rockets, can blanket approximately 40,000 square meters (about 430,000 square feet) in seconds, generating intense overpressure capable of destroying bunkers, fortified positions, lightly armored vehicles, and personnel concentrations. The system is used at short to medium ranges, with effective engagement distances spanning several hundred meters to several kilometers. The latest upgrades focus on countering small drones, a significant threat to Russian armored vehicles, though specific counter-UAV technologies were not detailed. Russian manufacturers have increasingly integrated electronic warfare modules, radar warning receivers, and improvised armor to mitigate drone attacks. The
robotmilitary-technologydrone-defenseelectronic-warfareautomated-fire-controlarmored-vehiclescounter-UAV-systemsAJAX enters UK service after £5.5B delays and safety issues
The British Army’s AJAX armored reconnaissance vehicle, developed by General Dynamics UK and based on the ASCOD 2 platform, has finally been declared ready for limited service after an eight-year delay and significant cost overruns. Initially contracted in 2010 to replace the aging CVR(T) fleet, the program aimed to deliver 589 vehicles with advanced armament and sensors capable of engaging targets from up to 8 km away. However, only about 165 vehicles have been delivered to date, with full operational capability expected by 2029–2030. Each AJAX unit now costs around £10 million, pushing total program costs between £5.5 billion and £6.3 billion. The program has faced numerous technical and safety challenges, including suspension issues, inability to reverse over certain obstacles, excessive noise, and severe vibration problems that caused hearing damage and nausea among soldiers. These health concerns led to the suspension of prototype trials in 2021 and the implementation of double hearing protection for crews. Despite
robotmilitary-roboticsarmored-vehiclesdefense-technologysensorsreconnaissance-systemsautonomous-systemsHow F1 engineering turned the CV90 into a battlefield sprinting tank
The CV90 infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), developed by BAE Systems Land Systems Hägglunds in Sweden, has been significantly enhanced by integrating active-damping suspension technology originally developed for 1990s Formula 1 cars. This adaptation enables the 35-ton armored vehicle to travel 30% to 40% faster over rough terrain compared to existing main battle tanks, while reducing pitch acceleration by about 40%. The suspension system automatically adjusts based on vehicle speed and terrain, resulting in a smoother ride that decreases crew fatigue, improves gunner accuracy by minimizing vertical movement, and extends the lifespan of vehicle components, thereby lowering maintenance costs. The CV90 is a highly versatile and combat-proven platform operated by several European nations, including Norway, Finland, and Denmark, with over 1,300 units sold. It features advanced survivability measures such as modular protection against mines, IEDs, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, as well as optional defensive aids and
robotmilitary-technologyactive-suspensionarmored-vehiclesvehicle-engineeringdefense-systemsoff-road-mobilityRussia reportedly deploys display tank after huge losses in Ukraine
Russia has reportedly deployed a T-90MS main battle tank, originally displayed as a desert-camouflaged exhibition model at the IDEX 2025 arms fair in the United Arab Emirates, to the frontline in Ukraine. According to the Russian manufacturer UralVagonZavod, the tank was repainted in standard military green and sent into combat with minimal modifications from its exhibited configuration. This move is unusual, as display units are typically reserved for foreign clients or kept out of immediate operational use, indicating urgent needs to replenish armored vehicle losses or fill gaps in upgraded tank inventories amid ongoing heavy attrition. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has suffered significant losses of tanks and armored vehicles, with estimates suggesting thousands of main battle tanks destroyed, damaged, or captured. To compensate, Russia has been refurbishing older Soviet-era tanks and ramping up production of modernized models like the T-90M “Proryv,” with output increasing from around 60
robotmilitary-technologyarmored-vehiclesdefense-systemsrobotics-in-warfaretank-technologymilitary-roboticsVinFast Rolls Out Armored EV - CleanTechnica
VinFast, a pioneering Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, has introduced the Lạc Hồng 900 LX, a fully electric armored SUV developed in collaboration with Canadian armoring specialist INKAS. This new vehicle combines sustainability, luxury, and high-level security, marking a significant milestone for both companies and positioning VinFast to compete with established global armored luxury vehicle makers. The Lạc Hồng 900 LX underwent rigorous third-party ballistic and blast testing, achieving VPAM VR7 certification, which provides robust protection against rifle fire and armor-piercing threats. The armored SUV successfully withstood over 400 live rounds, including laser-guided shots, as well as the simultaneous detonation of two DM51 hand grenades beneath critical floor areas. This level of protection is particularly notable given the challenges of safeguarding the high-voltage battery system in an electric vehicle. VinFast handled the electric vehicle engineering, while INKAS focused on the armoring, resulting in a vehicle that sets a new standard in electric armored
electric-vehiclesarmored-vehiclesenergy-storagesustainable-transportationbattery-protectionvehicle-safetyEV-engineeringVinFast Shows Off Automotive Prowess At Vietnam's 80th National Day Parade - CleanTechnica
At Vietnam’s 80th National Day celebrations, domestic automaker VinFast prominently displayed its growing automotive capabilities by showcasing a range of vehicles tailored for diverse needs, from national defense to ceremonial use. The highlight was the Lac Hong 900 LX armored car, which underwent rigorous independent testing in Germany, surviving 440 bullet shots and 11 explosive tests to achieve the European VPAM VR7 ballistic standard—making it the first Vietnamese-made vehicle to meet such high-level protection criteria. Developed in collaboration with Canadian armored vehicle specialist INKAS and assembled in Vietnam, the Lac Hong 900 LX features culturally significant design elements like a gold-plated Lạc bird emblem and bamboo-inspired grill, alongside technical advancements such as an extended wheelbase for increased interior space. In addition to the armored vehicle, VinFast introduced specially modified open-top VF 9 electric SUVs for the National Day parade, customized extensively for the Ministry of Public Security. These modifications involved removing structural pillars, redesigning exterior and interior elements, and upgrading
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-technologyVietnamVinFastarmored-vehiclesmanufacturingPresident Trump gets new bulletproof golf truck for ‘safe swings’
President Donald Trump has been provided with a new heavily armored golf utility vehicle, dubbed “Golf Force One,” which was recently seen accompanying him and his son Eric at the Trump Turnberry golf course in Scotland. The Polaris Ranger X-based vehicle is part of the Presidential fleet and offers ballistic protection tailored for rapid off-road response, addressing the unique security challenges posed by open golf course environments. The vehicle’s armor modifications, likely costing up to $190,000, provide scalable ballistic resistance depending on threat levels, ranging from protection against blunt objects to sniper rifles. The introduction of this armored golf buggy follows several recent security incidents involving Trump, including an attempted shooting at his Florida golf club in 2024 and a prior attack during a campaign event. Given Trump’s frequent golfing and tendency to drive his cart away from nearby Secret Service agents, the new vehicle aims to enhance his protection by offering faster emergency response and cover. The Secret Service has not disclosed specific details about the vehicle or its modifications, citing operational security,
materialsenergysecurity-technologyarmored-vehiclesballistic-protectionPolaris-Rangerspecialty-vehiclesT-14 Armata: A $8 Million Revolution or Just a Showpiece?
The T-14 Armata, heralded as Russia’s next-generation super tank, features cutting-edge technology such as an unmanned turret, advanced radar systems, and next-generation armor, positioning it as a potential revolution in armored warfare. Priced at an unprecedented $8 million per unit, it is the most expensive tank Russia has ever developed. Despite its impressive specifications and high-profile debut nearly a decade ago, the T-14 has yet to enter mass production or see significant frontline deployment. The tank’s development has been hampered by high costs, production delays, and concerns about reliability, raising doubts about whether Russia can afford to field it extensively. As a result, the T-14 remains largely a parade piece rather than an operational battlefield asset. The key question remains whether the Armata will ultimately prove to be a transformative weapon system or simply an expensive prototype that Russia struggles to integrate into its military forces.
robotmilitary-technologyunmanned-systemsadvanced-armorradar-systemsdefense-technologyarmored-vehicles