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INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
GIAT TO BE DRASTICALLY REFORMED
France's GIAT industries came to the exhibition with the first example of the VBCI infantry combat vehicle and the news that it was drastically downsizing its operating locations. Effectively, Roanne and Bourges will remain prime locations, dealing with GIAT's product portfolio. The VBCl got a lot of attention, as it is the French contribution to the rapidly expanding wheeled IFV market. France has already ordered 65 vehicles that are scheduled to go into serial production in 2007. The VBCI features an 8x8 wheel drive and a modular design to accommodate for different uses. Vehicle experts voiced scepticism, citing construction errors.
FLIR PRESENTS HIGH-RESOLUTION THERMAL IMAGER
The high-resolution LIRC QWIP thermal imager to be used in tanks was presented by FLIR Systems. It can be mounted in a sighting system or in a 360° panoramic sight. It enables Ion-range surveillance, recognition and identification in poor visibility and smoke. The Swedish Army has purchased 42 units as a part of a major upgrade programme for its CV9040 fleet.
CANADIAN MILITARY TO RECEIVE BETTER EYE PROTECTION
The Canadian Department of National Defence has awarded Revision Eyewear Inc. with a $1.2bn contract to provide its soldiers with better protective gear. This consists of 15,000 ballistic protective visors, deliverable in 2005-2006.
ISRAELS Ml 13S TO BE UPGRADED
In an urgent operational requirement, the IDF has awarded a contract to IMTs Slavin Land Systems Division to upgrade 50 Ml 13s. The upgrade consists of a new light vehicle armour system (L-VAS) against RPGs and HEAT rounds. Also, in order to counter the weight gain (to 15.5t), a 275hp Detroit Diesel engine is added. Drive and steering systems are also modernized for improved speed and mobility.
FRANCE EXPECTS CAESAR
GIAT Industries is expecting an order for 72 Caesar truck-mounted 155mm self-propelled artillery systems by the end of the year. Currently, Caesar is undergoing operational tests by the French Army. The British Army has also voiced its interest, as a lightweight mobile artillery system is required, that is also air transportable. For potential US customers, GIAT has teamed up with United Defense LP. GIAT claims that Caesar will be strategically more mobile at lower operating costs.
FN HERSTAL LAUNCHES ARROWS 300
Described by the company...