Advanced mortar system
Network enabled capabilities through Network Centric Warfare
The Network Centric Warfare (NCW) architecture ensures a permanent exchange of information between the single vehicles. Although operating in different locations the vehicles are in constant contact with each other, digitally exchanging mission relevant data. Integrated command and control (C2) and fire control systems make identified targets available within their own system network as well as to external and joint/combined forces. Information is analyzed in teamwork as well as the next steps defined, fire control data generated and the weapon carriers deployed.
The C2 vehicles are linked to each other through a C4ISTAR system where they share and gather intelligence data to ensure that each network participant has an up-to-date picture of the battle area. The network also connects them to external intelligence pools like higher command posts or HQs that have access to other ISR resources.
The C3&FC system uses this data to generate fire control solutions and missions commands for the lightweight armoured mortar weapon carriers.
It is only through this linking of different vehicle systems to form one system network that the coordination and precision required for joint interoperable operations will be possible. One example of such an operation is the use and control of laser-guided ammunition of Air Force and Navy for surgical operations by the vehicles of the Joint Fire Support Team (JFST) of the reconnaissance and combat network.
New capabilites for new mission scenarios
The security frameworks have changed radically in the last few years. New dangers such as terrorism, organised crime, the spread of weapons of mass destruction and their carrier systems as well as the impacts from distant regional crisis and conflicts are increasingly playing a role in national and international security. More and more, the perpetrators responsible for this situation have an international character and use asymmetrical patterns in their violence.
These new kinds of mission scenarios and the concomitant greater demands, placed in particular on survivability and protection, command and control, acquisition of information and reconnaissance, mobility and effect on target, require full interoperable and multinational capabilities right across the entire intensity scale of military operations.
Air-transportable digitally networked advanced mortar system
To meet their extended range of missions, the armed forces need a flexible, rapid reaction, armoured, and above all mobile and air-transportable reconnaissance and combat network that allows them to participate in joint fire operations. The main task of this system of systems within international crisis prevention and conflict management is to support infantry brigades by combat/mission reconnaissance and surveillance and by suitable combat support with organic high-/low-angle trajectory and anti tank firing.
