Australian Army Discussions and Updates

SammyC

Well-Known Member
The graphic is taken from a presentation @2019 so obviously warfare has changed significantly since then. I strongly suspect if there's a second battalion of IFVs ordered they will have a different turret similar to the Skyranger. AESA radar is at the point now where it's worthwhile integrating into turrets to provide an excellent stand alone capability that can also be networked.
I don't see the point of dedicated SPAAG units though as the cost dictate the primary function should be protecting troops. Mobile AD would be better in the form of say, the Bae Atlas -much cheaper and autonomous. Five would cost the same as a Redback but give much greater coverage with different turret set ups providing a range of gun/missile/sensor options.
I'm assuming that a Skyranger style IFV could be multi purpose. It could provide traditional ground troop protection and also AD within the same turret. So it would not be limited to AD only.

I get how a Skyranger could be paired with a NASAMS for local protection. And how Skyranger could be utilised at bases. I'm not sure how such an asset would be employed with a moving troop detachment. I assume they would be just mixed with the other IFVs for distributed protection?

The Atlas is interesting. I wounder just how autonomous it could be made with regards to target detection and engagement. Can't see you wanting a remote radio or sat link for the type of environment it could be used in.
 
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