This is a discussion on Australian Army Discussions and Updates within the Army & Security Forces forum, part of the Global Defense & Military category; Originally Posted by hairyman
And we are thinking of buying 18?
We are planning to acquire 2x operational batteries with ...
We are planning to acquire 2x operational batteries with 6x guns per battery to equip 8/12 Medium Regt in support of 1 Brigade Mechanised operations and an additional 6x guns to equip the School of Artillery and Trade Training establishments, so yes, a total of 18x guns under Phase 1 of LAND 17.
Defence has released an RFT for a mature solution to be provided for a Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Weapon System with similar weapon performance to the in-service M4A1 carbine but in a shorter variant for use in urban and confined spaces.
While Defence is open to acquiring a completely new weapon design, its preference is for modifications to the existing carbine including a shortened upper receiver that is compatible with the M4A1 Carbine lower receiver.
Such modifications are readily available.
Developed for US special operations forces, the Close Quarters Battle Receiver (CQBR) is a replacement upper receiver for the M4A1 Carbine.
The CQBR upgrades the M4 with a barrel 10.3 in (260 mm) long, the modern equivalent of the Colt Commando short-barrel M16 variants of the past.
The purpose of the CQBR is to provide operators with a weapon of submachine gun size, but firing a rifle cartridge, for scenarios such as VIP protection, urban warfare, and other close quarters battle (CQB) situations.
No they aren't. This RFP is for a close quarter battle weapon for TAG-East/West operators in counter assault and other "black" roles.
It isn't intended as a replacement for the M4A5 (not A1) capability currently employed on operations by SOCOMD, but rather as a replacement for 9mm MP5A3 weapons currently used by the TAG.
The intention is to "standardise" on the M4 family and a short 5.56mm CQB weapon is sought for the greater hitting power over the 9mm family whilst remaining integrated with current logistics arrangements.
Basically what SOCOMD is doing is coming into alignment weapon-wise with what Australian Police Tactical Teams have already done...
Looks like the Rudd Government is going to allow female recruits to serve in all combat arms. Physical entry requirements are going to be reviewed, quote as follows
"Defence Science and Technology Organisation would develop a new set of physical employment standards for the army that would accurately measure a person's ability to perform the broad variety of jobs in the modern defence force."
To me this will mean one of two things, either differing physical entry requirements based not on gender, but on build - load carry expectations based on percentage of overall weight of the individual, thus avoiding any male/female bias, or a general drop in physical requirements across the board. Let's hope it's the former not the latter.
Michael Yon's recent report showed British female medics in the field with their male counterparts, under fire and taking part in exhaustive and long foot-patrols. No negative reports coming in about them failing to keep up or perform under fire, however they supported, and did not take part in any actual fighting (other than in self-defence).
No they aren't. This RFP is for a close quarter battle weapon for TAG-East/West operators in counter assault and other "black" roles.
It isn't intended as a replacement for the M4A5 (not A1) capability currently employed on operations by SOCOMD, but rather as a replacement for 9mm MP5A3 weapons currently used by the TAG.
The intention is to "standardise" on the M4 family and a short 5.56mm CQB weapon is sought for the greater hitting power over the 9mm family whilst remaining integrated with current logistics arrangements.
Basically what SOCOMD is doing is coming into alignment weapon-wise with what Australian Police Tactical Teams have already done...
This replacement is just for CQB work right? i.e. VIP protection, hostage stuff and urban work? MP7 looks like a nice piece of kit, 6mm (?) though. Tavour could work too although I'm not sure how many toys you could hang of the thing, and you know how much specwarries love their toys!
Channel 10.......5 O'clock news report on Thales ................Hawkeye?
I just caught a glympse of Thales Hawkeye 8 tonne vehicle.This is the first time i have even heard of these Vehicles.They seem similar to a Hummer(but look sexy).They have protection for 5 troops,from IEDs,small arms and shrapnel.
The news report said Hawkeye is the frontrunner for the sale of 1300 units to ARMY.???
I looked on the Thales website but could not locate the Hawkeye ,even on Google.
Anyone have any info on these Vehicles?
Regards
Last edited by the road runner; September 29th, 2009 at 05:31 AM.