TechnologyISSN : 0971-4413

BULLETIN OF DEFENCE RESEARCH ANDDEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION Vol. 17 No. 4 August 2009

echnology and its applications has always been a Thigh priority of the Defence Forces. As scientific discoveries and technological advances grew, so do their military applications. Though technological advancements have forced the military world over to replace or upgrade systems dependent on fast moving technology (weapons, sensors and communication equipment) more frequently than in the past, system platforms are likely to retain their operational edge for longer because the technologies on which they depend (materials, structures and propulsion) will probably advance less rapidly, and because they will be designed to accommodate updates. Combat vehicles are an important item of any Defence inventory. Their applications have always been integral for a wide range of operations from high-intensity combat to peacekeeping.

There is an upward trend to develop affordable armoured combat vehicles that provide a high level of crew survivability, and are relatively lightweight for strategic mobility. This pressure is prompting the application of concurrent advances of emerging technologies to enable medium weight vehicles to operate effectively in roles ranging from high intensity conflicts to operations other than war. Applying these

new technologies to combat vehicle systems concurrently and synergist ical ly can make performance predictions difficult and acquisitions risky. However, if accelerated technology developments are coupled with virtual and constructive simulation for human performance and battlefield effectiveness predictions, acquisition programme risk can be substantially reduced.

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is engaged in design and development of light tracked vehicles to meet the operational requirements of Indian Army. The products developed by DRDO like Armoured Engineer Recce Vehicle (AERV), Armoured Amphibious Dozer (AAD), and modified scooping device developed for NBC Recce Vehicles are r e m a r k a b l e a c h i e v e m e n t s a n d h a v e b e e n productionised under Limited Series Production (LSP) for introduction into the Service. To fill the technological gap of new generation Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) companion to MBT, DRDO has also developed an indigenous ICV, called Abhay. Abhay is a blend of state-of-the-art technologies with impressive fire power, excellent mobility, and high degree of protection.

Technologies for Light Armoured Tracked Vehicles

Technologies for Light Armoured Tracked Vehicles

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Armoured Engineer Recce VehicleArmoured Engineer Recce Vehicle (AERV) is designed to provide combat engineering support for both offensive

and defensive operations in plain, desert, and reverine terrain. AERV can measure bank conditions, profile of water obstacles, and terrain conditions to facilitate construction of assault bridges. The vehicle is based on amphibious BMP-II chassis retaining its mobility and protective features. Two LSP orders for 16 AERVs have been placed by Army. The LSP is being executed by VRDE through the production agencies Ordinance Factory Project (OFP), Medak, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Pune. Fourteen vehicles have already been delivered and others are ready for delivery. Transfer of AHSP (authority for holding sealed particulars) to CQA (ICV) is concurrently being carried out.

Salient Features

Based on BMP-II chassis and fully amphibious

Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS)

Picket Driving System (PDS) for route marking

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Equipped with land recce instruments like Digital Cone Penetrometer (DCP) for measurement of bearing capacity of soil; Electronic Distomat and Theodolite (EDT) for measurement of distance, height, and slope of the bank; Laser Range Finder (LRF); Passive Night Observation Device (PNOD); and Water Recce Instruments like Echo Sounder (ES) to measure water depth, bed profile, etc., Water Current Meter (WCM), Electronic Distance Meter (EDM) to measure distance travelled in water, Standalone Handheld Water Current Meter for measuring water current, and depth measuring equipment

Armoured Amphibious Dozer (AAD) is designed to provide integral engineering support in offensive operations by reducing banks of water obstacles to facilitate construction of wet/dry assault bridges and improving mobility of mechanised formations by construction and improvement of existing tracks. AAD, based on re-engineered BMP-II chassis, comprises a Rocket Propelled Anchor (RPA) for self recovery from water obstacle (90 m range), and improved day sight and image intensifier for night operations. The indigenous dual control technology (operator sitting in the rear side of the vehicle) used for AAD has helped in easy dozing operations. Army's LSP order for six AADs is being executed by the OFP, Medak.

Salient Features

GVW : 16 ton3 3Bucket capacity : 1.53 m (normal); 1.90 m ( heaped )

Prime mover : CI engine, 76 kW @ 2400 rpm, water cooledPump : L&T poclain radial piston, 180 lpm @ 200 barDual control : Driver's controls duplicated for dozing operationsFuel tank capacity : 462 l + 66 l (for auxillary engine)Armament : 7.62 mm machine gun mounted on operator's cupolaHydraulic winch : Ex M/s Rotzler, 8 ton capacityBuoyancy tanks : Add-on kit to retain amphibious capability and

better steerability during floatationJib crane : 3 ton capacity, bucket mounted

Armoured Amphibious Dozer

From the Desk of Special Editor DRDO has the charter to maintain and enhance the Indian Forces' already advanced capabilities. Supporting an Army at war is critical, both tactically and strategically. From a tactical standpoint, DRDO is working with the Services and industry partners to provide the weapon systems and equipment our Services need to accomplish their mission. Strategically, besides meeting the ongoing requirements, DRDO is also working to overcome the timeline to deliver weapon systems and equipment to the users. DRDO's goal is to constrict the concept-to-combat cycle to meet the

immediate and future needs of the users. Its dynamic and responsive S&T portfolio is focused to enable specific new capabilities in the Future Force while remaining agile to satisfy the Current Force's operational needs.

Infantry combat vehicles are used as a means of armoured transportation to move infantry to the battlefield after tanks and capture combat areas. In the era of conventional combined arms and peacekeeping operations ICVs have evolved into a real force multiplier. This issue of Technology Focus gives an overview of the light tracked vehicles developed by DRDO for the Indian Army. The issue also highlights the indigenous capabilities developed by DRDO during the development of its multidisciplinary and multi-lab project, ICV Abahy.

I thank Dr CL Dhamejani, Director VRDE, his design team, and also all the Directors of other DRDO laboratories/establishments who contributed in realising LSP orders and technology development programmes. In this process, DRDO has not only built self-reliance and confidence in development of indigenous technologies and system integration capabilities of light tracked vehicles, but has also strengthened its research and development base, which will be definitely helpful in development of Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) as per GSQR 1053.

R. ShankarDirector

Dte of Combat Vehicles & EngineeringDRDO HQ, New Delhi

Armoured engineer recce vehicle.

Armoured amphibious dozer.

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Armoured Engineer Recce VehicleArmoured Engineer Recce Vehicle (AERV) is designed to provide combat engineering support for both offensive

and defensive operations in plain, desert, and reverine terrain. AERV can measure bank conditions, profile of water obstacles, and terrain conditions to facilitate construction of assault bridges. The vehicle is based on amphibious BMP-II chassis retaining its mobility and protective features. Two LSP orders for 16 AERVs have been placed by Army. The LSP is being executed by VRDE through the production agencies Ordinance Factory Project (OFP), Medak, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Pune. Fourteen vehicles have already been delivered and others are ready for delivery. Transfer of AHSP (authority for holding sealed particulars) to CQA (ICV) is concurrently being carried out.

Salient Features

Based on BMP-II chassis and fully amphibious

Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS)

Picket Driving System (PDS) for route marking

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Equipped with land recce instruments like Digital Cone Penetrometer (DCP) for measurement of bearing capacity of soil; Electronic Distomat and Theodolite (EDT) for measurement of distance, height, and slope of the bank; Laser Range Finder (LRF); Passive Night Observation Device (PNOD); and Water Recce Instruments like Echo Sounder (ES) to measure water depth, bed profile, etc., Water Current Meter (WCM), Electronic Distance Meter (EDM) to measure distance travelled in water, Standalone Handheld Water Current Meter for measuring water current, and depth measuring equipment

Armoured Amphibious Dozer (AAD) is designed to provide integral engineering support in offensive operations by reducing banks of water obstacles to facilitate construction of wet/dry assault bridges and improving mobility of mechanised formations by construction and improvement of existing tracks. AAD, based on re-engineered BMP-II chassis, comprises a Rocket Propelled Anchor (RPA) for self recovery from water obstacle (90 m range), and improved day sight and image intensifier for night operations. The indigenous dual control technology (operator sitting in the rear side of the vehicle) used for AAD has helped in easy dozing operations. Army's LSP order for six AADs is being executed by the OFP, Medak.

Salient Features

GVW : 16 ton3 3Bucket capacity : 1.53 m (normal); 1.90 m ( heaped )

Prime mover : CI engine, 76 kW @ 2400 rpm, water cooledPump : L&T poclain radial piston, 180 lpm @ 200 barDual control : Driver's controls duplicated for dozing operationsFuel tank capacity : 462 l + 66 l (for auxillary engine)Armament : 7.62 mm machine gun mounted on operator's cupolaHydraulic winch : Ex M/s Rotzler, 8 ton capacityBuoyancy tanks : Add-on kit to retain amphibious capability and

better steerability during floatationJib crane : 3 ton capacity, bucket mounted

Armoured Amphibious Dozer

From the Desk of Special Editor DRDO has the charter to maintain and enhance the Indian Forces' already advanced capabilities. Supporting an Army at war is critical, both tactically and strategically. From a tactical standpoint, DRDO is working with the Services and industry partners to provide the weapon systems and equipment our Services need to accomplish their mission. Strategically, besides meeting the ongoing requirements, DRDO is also working to overcome the timeline to deliver weapon systems and equipment to the users. DRDO's goal is to constrict the concept-to-combat cycle to meet the

immediate and future needs of the users. Its dynamic and responsive S&T portfolio is focused to enable specific new capabilities in the Future Force while remaining agile to satisfy the Current Force's operational needs.

Infantry combat vehicles are used as a means of armoured transportation to move infantry to the battlefield after tanks and capture combat areas. In the era of conventional combined arms and peacekeeping operations ICVs have evolved into a real force multiplier. This issue of Technology Focus gives an overview of the light tracked vehicles developed by DRDO for the Indian Army. The issue also highlights the indigenous capabilities developed by DRDO during the development of its multidisciplinary and multi-lab project, ICV Abahy.

I thank Dr CL Dhamejani, Director VRDE, his design team, and also all the Directors of other DRDO laboratories/establishments who contributed in realising LSP orders and technology development programmes. In this process, DRDO has not only built self-reliance and confidence in development of indigenous technologies and system integration capabilities of light tracked vehicles, but has also strengthened its research and development base, which will be definitely helpful in development of Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) as per GSQR 1053.

R. ShankarDirector

Dte of Combat Vehicles & EngineeringDRDO HQ, New Delhi

Armoured engineer recce vehicle.

Armoured amphibious dozer.

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NBC Recce Vehicle

105 mm Light Tank

N B C R e c c e V e h i c l e i s designed to diagnose the presence of nuclear, biological, and chemical agents in the affected area. It cordons the c o n t a m i n a t e d a r e a s a n d transmits the vital information to the support formation from within the confines of the vehicle. Vehicle is based on BMP-II chassis. V R D E i s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r modification of the basic vehicle, development of scooping device for sample collection, and picket driving system.

Army has accepted the vehicle after implementation of modifications as requested by them, and has placed LSP order for eight vehicles. Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur, is the nodal agency for execution of the LSP order and OFP, Medak, is the production agency.

Salient Features

Vehicle is equipped with the following instruments/devices:

Nuclear recce instruments such as roentgenometer, portable dosimeter, portable dose rate meter, and meteorological sensors

Remote controlled sample collecting device

Chemical recce instruments like chemical agent monitor, gas chromatograph, residual vapour detection kit

Portable decontamination apparatus and NBC suits

Data acquisition system

Differential global positioning system

Picket driving system for marking of contaminated areas

DRDO has developed a light tank based on BMP-II chassis with 105 mm turret (GIAT industries, France). This vehicle is aimed to carry high caliber weapons without sacrificing the strategic or tactical mobility. Mechanical integration of turret with chassis, stability during firing, and compatibility of 105 mm Indian Armour Piercing Fin Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) ammunition with turret have been established during the trials.

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Salient Features3 men crew for turret105 mm semiautomatic main gun with muzzle brakeCapable of firing APFSDS, APDS (Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot), HESH (High Explosive Squash Head) ammunitionCOTAC semiautomatic Fire Control System (FCS)Accurate ranging by LRFLow-light level TV for commander and gunnerPanoramic sight for CommanderAl alloy turret with 12.7 AP protection levelAmphibian capabilities Stowing capability: Main gun–42 rounds; turret–10 rounds; ammunition compartment–32 rounds

Development of ICV Abhay required several technologies in the fields of materials, electronics, instrumentation, armaments, etc. The programme was executed through integrated approach with support from sister laboratories of DRDO. These include, IRDE, ARDE, DMRL, HEMRL, CFEES, DEBEL, CVRDE, and DLJ. VRDE carried out the basic design and development of hull and turret envelopes, power pack, running gear, suspension, vetronics, automotive systems, system integration, and testing. A number of technologies have been realised while developing Abhay. Some of these are covered here.

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Infantry Combat Vehicle Abhay

NBC recce vehicle.

105 mm light tank.

Infantry combat vehicle Abhay.

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NBC Recce Vehicle

105 mm Light Tank

N B C R e c c e V e h i c l e i s designed to diagnose the presence of nuclear, biological, and chemical agents in the affected area. It cordons the c o n t a m i n a t e d a r e a s a n d transmits the vital information to the support formation from within the confines of the vehicle. Vehicle is based on BMP-II chassis. V R D E i s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r modification of the basic vehicle, development of scooping device for sample collection, and picket driving system.

Army has accepted the vehicle after implementation of modifications as requested by them, and has placed LSP order for eight vehicles. Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur, is the nodal agency for execution of the LSP order and OFP, Medak, is the production agency.

Salient Features

Vehicle is equipped with the following instruments/devices:

Nuclear recce instruments such as roentgenometer, portable dosimeter, portable dose rate meter, and meteorological sensors

Remote controlled sample collecting device

Chemical recce instruments like chemical agent monitor, gas chromatograph, residual vapour detection kit

Portable decontamination apparatus and NBC suits

Data acquisition system

Differential global positioning system

Picket driving system for marking of contaminated areas

DRDO has developed a light tank based on BMP-II chassis with 105 mm turret (GIAT industries, France). This vehicle is aimed to carry high caliber weapons without sacrificing the strategic or tactical mobility. Mechanical integration of turret with chassis, stability during firing, and compatibility of 105 mm Indian Armour Piercing Fin Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) ammunition with turret have been established during the trials.

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Salient Features3 men crew for turret105 mm semiautomatic main gun with muzzle brakeCapable of firing APFSDS, APDS (Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot), HESH (High Explosive Squash Head) ammunitionCOTAC semiautomatic Fire Control System (FCS)Accurate ranging by LRFLow-light level TV for commander and gunnerPanoramic sight for CommanderAl alloy turret with 12.7 AP protection levelAmphibian capabilities Stowing capability: Main gun–42 rounds; turret–10 rounds; ammunition compartment–32 rounds

Development of ICV Abhay required several technologies in the fields of materials, electronics, instrumentation, armaments, etc. The programme was executed through integrated approach with support from sister laboratories of DRDO. These include, IRDE, ARDE, DMRL, HEMRL, CFEES, DEBEL, CVRDE, and DLJ. VRDE carried out the basic design and development of hull and turret envelopes, power pack, running gear, suspension, vetronics, automotive systems, system integration, and testing. A number of technologies have been realised while developing Abhay. Some of these are covered here.

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Infantry Combat Vehicle Abhay

NBC recce vehicle.

105 mm light tank.

Infantry combat vehicle Abhay.

Technology

Armoured Hull EnvelopeThe Structure

Composite Armour

Hull envelope is the basic structure of ICV. It houses automotive, armament, and running gear systems. It also provides space for crew, and protection against small arms. A lightweight compound armoured hull has been designed to accommodate all the sub-systems maintaining the dimensions limits. The first Armoured Prototype-I (AP-I) was developed using steel of thin medium hardness. The second Armoured Prototype-II (AP-II) was developed with round corners with reduced silhouette enhancing the stealth capability, and was also mounted with composite armour optimised for the perceived threats. The programme has helped DRDO in real iz ing the indigenous hul l manufactur ing technology—edge preparation, specialised welding and armour bending techniques. The technology of mounting non-metallic composite armour has also been indigenously developed for this programme.

New armour technologies such as multi-ceramic armour; titanium armour; high hardness steel armour; dual hardness spaced armour; and anti-fragment armour have been successfully designed, developed, fabricated and integrated for providing specificed protection at various locations of ICV Abhay.

All these technologies have led to a weight reduction of the armour by more than 40 per cent in comparison with steel for equivalent protection. More than 300 armour components fabricated to specific shapes, sizes and configurations have been made and integrated on the armoured prototypes.

Lighter impact version of explosive reactive armour (ERA) with mounting fixtures, etc., has been developed. The ERA can offer protection without any damage to base armour of Abhay.

The NBC protection system consisting of Radiation Detection, Measurement and Control (RADMAC) Unit, Automatic Control Unit (ACU), Blower Control Unit (BCU) and automation of NBC Protection System vis-a-vis

Development of Lighter ERA

NBC Protection System

modernisation of NBC Protection Sytem of ICV BMP-II has been developed and integrated on ICV Abhay.

The Integrated Fire Supression System (IFSS) has been developed to protect Abhay from fire in engine and crew compartment. IFSS comprises Main Control Unit (MCU), IR Detector Units, Automatic Fire Extinquisher (AFE), Portable Fire Extinguisher (PFE), Electrical Pyro Cartridge, Linear Thermal Detector, Alarm Unit (AU), Emergency Switch Unit (ESU), Cable Harness, and IFSS system softwar

Abhay runs on a 550 hp indigenous turbocharged diesel engine with Hydro Mechanical Power Transmission (HMPT)-500-3EC fully automatic cross-drive transmission of M/s David Brown, UK. It has six forward and two reverse speeds. A new cooling system comprising radiator core, after cooler core, transmission oil cooler, hydraulic oil cooler core, cooling fan, and hydraulic drives has been indigenously designed and developed. The compact cooling system with hydraulic drives is capable of withstanding temperature

o oranging from -10 C to +55 C. The steering and brake system integrated with automatic transmission are controlled through indigenously developed actuation system and linkage mechanism. An indigenous Power Distribution Unit (PDU) distributes power to compressor, generator, cooling fan, etc. Lightweight final drives with offset using aluminium casings have been also realised indigenously.

The hydro strut suspension of Abhay utilises the proven advantages of a pneumatic spring. Abhay's hydro damper can be adapted to both tracked vehicles. The damper is inbuilt in this form of suspension. The hydro strut suspension offers better ride comfort and exceptional cross-country mobility. The static load capacity of each suspension is 1.4 ton to 1.9 ton with wheel travel up to 400 mm, and bounce and rebound of 300 mm and 100 mm, respectively.

Integrated Fire Supression System

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Automotive SystemsPower Pack

Suspension System

Hull envelope of armoured prototype-II and armoured prototype-I(top).

Hull envelope of

Multi-hit ceramic armour and titanium armour(top).

Testing of ERA pannel (left) and undamaged base armour.

RADMAC (left) and automatic control unit.

Compact power pack system (left) and air intake and cooling system.06

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Technology

Armoured Hull EnvelopeThe Structure

Composite Armour

Hull envelope is the basic structure of ICV. It houses automotive, armament, and running gear systems. It also provides space for crew, and protection against small arms. A lightweight compound armoured hull has been designed to accommodate all the sub-systems maintaining the dimensions limits. The first Armoured Prototype-I (AP-I) was developed using steel of thin medium hardness. The second Armoured Prototype-II (AP-II) was developed with round corners with reduced silhouette enhancing the stealth capability, and was also mounted with composite armour optimised for the perceived threats. The programme has helped DRDO in real iz ing the indigenous hul l manufactur ing technology—edge preparation, specialised welding and armour bending techniques. The technology of mounting non-metallic composite armour has also been indigenously developed for this programme.

New armour technologies such as multi-ceramic armour; titanium armour; high hardness steel armour; dual hardness spaced armour; and anti-fragment armour have been successfully designed, developed, fabricated and integrated for providing specificed protection at various locations of ICV Abhay.

All these technologies have led to a weight reduction of the armour by more than 40 per cent in comparison with steel for equivalent protection. More than 300 armour components fabricated to specific shapes, sizes and configurations have been made and integrated on the armoured prototypes.

Lighter impact version of explosive reactive armour (ERA) with mounting fixtures, etc., has been developed. The ERA can offer protection without any damage to base armour of Abhay.

The NBC protection system consisting of Radiation Detection, Measurement and Control (RADMAC) Unit, Automatic Control Unit (ACU), Blower Control Unit (BCU) and automation of NBC Protection System vis-a-vis

Development of Lighter ERA

NBC Protection System

modernisation of NBC Protection Sytem of ICV BMP-II has been developed and integrated on ICV Abhay.

The Integrated Fire Supression System (IFSS) has been developed to protect Abhay from fire in engine and crew compartment. IFSS comprises Main Control Unit (MCU), IR Detector Units, Automatic Fire Extinquisher (AFE), Portable Fire Extinguisher (PFE), Electrical Pyro Cartridge, Linear Thermal Detector, Alarm Unit (AU), Emergency Switch Unit (ESU), Cable Harness, and IFSS system softwar

Abhay runs on a 550 hp indigenous turbocharged diesel engine with Hydro Mechanical Power Transmission (HMPT)-500-3EC fully automatic cross-drive transmission of M/s David Brown, UK. It has six forward and two reverse speeds. A new cooling system comprising radiator core, after cooler core, transmission oil cooler, hydraulic oil cooler core, cooling fan, and hydraulic drives has been indigenously designed and developed. The compact cooling system with hydraulic drives is capable of withstanding temperature

o oranging from -10 C to +55 C. The steering and brake system integrated with automatic transmission are controlled through indigenously developed actuation system and linkage mechanism. An indigenous Power Distribution Unit (PDU) distributes power to compressor, generator, cooling fan, etc. Lightweight final drives with offset using aluminium casings have been also realised indigenously.

The hydro strut suspension of Abhay utilises the proven advantages of a pneumatic spring. Abhay's hydro damper can be adapted to both tracked vehicles. The damper is inbuilt in this form of suspension. The hydro strut suspension offers better ride comfort and exceptional cross-country mobility. The static load capacity of each suspension is 1.4 ton to 1.9 ton with wheel travel up to 400 mm, and bounce and rebound of 300 mm and 100 mm, respectively.

Integrated Fire Supression System

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Automotive SystemsPower Pack

Suspension System

Hull envelope of armoured prototype-II and armoured prototype-I(top).

Hull envelope of

Multi-hit ceramic armour and titanium armour(top).

Testing of ERA pannel (left) and undamaged base armour.

RADMAC (left) and automatic control unit.

Compact power pack system (left) and air intake and cooling system.06

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The technologies realised during the development of hydro gas suspension system include surface finishing and surface coating techniques, sealing materials, manufacturing techniques for seals, test cycles, and testing procedure.

Indigenously developed running gear system of Abhay comprises a double pin, and rubber track with central horn. The axle arms, sprockets, idler wheels, road wheels, and track tension mechanism have also been indigenously designed and developed.

An indigenous advance automotive dashboard with various sensors has been developed and integrated on the vehicle. The dashboard has been interfaced with GPS system for navigation. It acquires inputs on various parameters from engine, transmission, and troops' compartments and displays it on the front panel. The front end display shows selectable vehicle parameters such as vehicle speed, engine speed, engine/gearbox oil pressure, temperature, etc. The system checks all vehicle parameters and generates appropriate messages. It also records the cumulative values of important parameters, and schedule of periodic maintenance. The system continuously compares sensors inputs of critical parameters with threshold limits and gives audio/visual warning whenever any parameter goes out of specified range.

A polygonal shaped turret envelope made of armour steel plates has been developed. To increase the protection level, the turret is sloped all around especially in the formal arc of protection. For the AP-II, a rounded turret has been realised by armour bending technique. The turret provides low silhouette and maximum protection level,

Running Gear System

Advance Automotive Dashboard

Turret Structure

Turret System

accommodates commander and gunner, and is also fitted with main gun, secondary armament, gun control equipment, gunner's main sight, etc. Both AP-I and AP-II have suspended lightweight turret baskets for attachment of assemblies and integrated equipment. Both, the commander and the gunner have adjustable seats. A bearing race (wire race) meshed with pinion gear helps in turret traverse. It is driven by lightweight high precision servo gear drives. The turret lock has been designed for positive locking of turret traverse during movement of ICV.

All electric-type weapon control system with indepen-dent stabilisation has been developed indigenously to position the 40 mm main gun on the target in azimuth and elevation, and to provide stabilisation to weapon platform against external disturbances. The system employs vector control technology implemented through digital controllers and Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor ( IGBT)-based power amplifiers for control of brushless drives. It uses state-of-the-art fibre optic gyros as feedback elements for the purpose of stabili-sation. All Electric Drive (AED) has a provision of MIL 1553 and RS 422 interface for real-time connectivity with FCS and Battle Management System (BMS). It has been interfaced with a combined day-cum-night sight integrated to LRF.

Electric Weapon Control System

Left to right: Running gear assembly, track.road wheel, and

Front end display of dashboard.

Polyhedral (left) and rounded turret structures.

Gun control system for Abhay.

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The technologies realised during the development of hydro gas suspension system include surface finishing and surface coating techniques, sealing materials, manufacturing techniques for seals, test cycles, and testing procedure.

Indigenously developed running gear system of Abhay comprises a double pin, and rubber track with central horn. The axle arms, sprockets, idler wheels, road wheels, and track tension mechanism have also been indigenously designed and developed.

An indigenous advance automotive dashboard with various sensors has been developed and integrated on the vehicle. The dashboard has been interfaced with GPS system for navigation. It acquires inputs on various parameters from engine, transmission, and troops' compartments and displays it on the front panel. The front end display shows selectable vehicle parameters such as vehicle speed, engine speed, engine/gearbox oil pressure, temperature, etc. The system checks all vehicle parameters and generates appropriate messages. It also records the cumulative values of important parameters, and schedule of periodic maintenance. The system continuously compares sensors inputs of critical parameters with threshold limits and gives audio/visual warning whenever any parameter goes out of specified range.

A polygonal shaped turret envelope made of armour steel plates has been developed. To increase the protection level, the turret is sloped all around especially in the formal arc of protection. For the AP-II, a rounded turret has been realised by armour bending technique. The turret provides low silhouette and maximum protection level,

Running Gear System

Advance Automotive Dashboard

Turret Structure

Turret System

accommodates commander and gunner, and is also fitted with main gun, secondary armament, gun control equipment, gunner's main sight, etc. Both AP-I and AP-II have suspended lightweight turret baskets for attachment of assemblies and integrated equipment. Both, the commander and the gunner have adjustable seats. A bearing race (wire race) meshed with pinion gear helps in turret traverse. It is driven by lightweight high precision servo gear drives. The turret lock has been designed for positive locking of turret traverse during movement of ICV.

All electric-type weapon control system with indepen-dent stabilisation has been developed indigenously to position the 40 mm main gun on the target in azimuth and elevation, and to provide stabilisation to weapon platform against external disturbances. The system employs vector control technology implemented through digital controllers and Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor ( IGBT)-based power amplifiers for control of brushless drives. It uses state-of-the-art fibre optic gyros as feedback elements for the purpose of stabili-sation. All Electric Drive (AED) has a provision of MIL 1553 and RS 422 interface for real-time connectivity with FCS and Battle Management System (BMS). It has been interfaced with a combined day-cum-night sight integrated to LRF.

Electric Weapon Control System

Left to right: Running gear assembly, track.road wheel, and

Front end display of dashboard.

Polyhedral (left) and rounded turret structures.

Gun control system for Abhay.

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Armament System

Twin Missile Launcher System

Instrumentation System

Abhay is fitted with a 40 mm caliber main gun; two column feed and ejection system for firing APFSDS and high explosive (HE) ammunition; integrated Armament Fire Control Unit (AFCU); mounting system; and balancing gears. Coaxial mounting system for 7.62 mm PKT, and elevating, firing and cocking mechanisms for 30 mm AGL have also been developed as a secondary armament system. New 40 mm FSAPDS ammunition has also been developed using single base propellant MEX-NX. All the armaments with all the mechanisms and mount have been tested successfully for their strength, operation, and accuracy.

An integrated twin missile launcher system has been integrated on the Abhay to increase its firepower capability. It has provision for two missiles placed side by side over two guide rails, which in turn are mounted onto a hood. The whole assembly is mounted on top plate of Abhay's turret.

The fol lowing instrumentation systems have been developed for Abhay's turret system:

The Gunner's Main Sight (GMS) is an integrated sight having stabilised head, day sight, thermal imager and LRF with a built-in fire control computer (FCC). All the t e c h n o l o g i e s i n v o l v e d a n d t h e components used are critical in nature. A modular concept has been adapted to realise the complete system.

The thermal monitor, a multi functional display, facilitates the commander to view the image as seen by the gunner. Various keys have been configured for man-machine interface.

Gunner's Main Sight

Thermal Monitor for CommanderTwin missile launcher.

Clockwise from top left: Armament fire control unit; two- column feed and ejection system; and 40 mm FSAPDS.

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Commander's Day Periscope

Fire Control Computer

Driver's Passive Night Periscope

Laser Warning System

Muzzle Bore Sight

Commander's day periscope provides the facility to the commander for surveillance and designate outside terrain targets when the commander's hatch is closed.

The FCC provides ballistic offsets to the gun in azimuth and elevation for different ammunition based upon the range and environmental conditions. The FCC console enables the gunner to key in ammunition type, range, meteorological parameters, mean point of impact, and bore sighting range, etc.

The driver's passive night periscope (DPNP) provides night driving capability to the driver of the Abhay. The DPNP is based on the image intensification technology using 2nd generation image intensifier tube, a fast optical system as OG, and a binocular eye piece for smooth and comfortable vision.

The laser warning system reduces vehicle's vulnerability to various kinds of laser assisted weapon threats by providing audio and visual warnings of threat to the crew for timely initiation of appropriate countermeasures.

Modifications have been done to the existing bore muzzle TXP-1-515 of BMP-II to suite the requirement of bore sighting and zeroing of 40 mm gun of Abhay.

Powe-to-weight ratio : 24 hp/ton

Maximum gradient : 35º

Vertical step climbing : 0.8 m to 0.9 m

Cruising range : 400 km

Cross-country speed : 35 kmph

Speed on road : 70 kmph

Fully automatic transmission

Hydro gas suspension

A weapon mix of 40 mm caliber gun, 7.62 mm machine gun and 30 mm grenade launcherHigh velocity 40 mm APFSDS type ammunition and HE ammunition against bunkers

Abhay: The Salient FeaturesMobility

Fire Power

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Fire control computer.

Technology

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Armament System

Twin Missile Launcher System

Instrumentation System

Abhay is fitted with a 40 mm caliber main gun; two column feed and ejection system for firing APFSDS and high explosive (HE) ammunition; integrated Armament Fire Control Unit (AFCU); mounting system; and balancing gears. Coaxial mounting system for 7.62 mm PKT, and elevating, firing and cocking mechanisms for 30 mm AGL have also been developed as a secondary armament system. New 40 mm FSAPDS ammunition has also been developed using single base propellant MEX-NX. All the armaments with all the mechanisms and mount have been tested successfully for their strength, operation, and accuracy.

An integrated twin missile launcher system has been integrated on the Abhay to increase its firepower capability. It has provision for two missiles placed side by side over two guide rails, which in turn are mounted onto a hood. The whole assembly is mounted on top plate of Abhay's turret.

The fol lowing instrumentation systems have been developed for Abhay's turret system:

The Gunner's Main Sight (GMS) is an integrated sight having stabilised head, day sight, thermal imager and LRF with a built-in fire control computer (FCC). All the t e c h n o l o g i e s i n v o l v e d a n d t h e components used are critical in nature. A modular concept has been adapted to realise the complete system.

The thermal monitor, a multi functional display, facilitates the commander to view the image as seen by the gunner. Various keys have been configured for man-machine interface.

Gunner's Main Sight

Thermal Monitor for CommanderTwin missile launcher.

Clockwise from top left: Armament fire control unit; two- column feed and ejection system; and 40 mm FSAPDS.

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Commander's Day Periscope

Fire Control Computer

Driver's Passive Night Periscope

Laser Warning System

Muzzle Bore Sight

Commander's day periscope provides the facility to the commander for surveillance and designate outside terrain targets when the commander's hatch is closed.

The FCC provides ballistic offsets to the gun in azimuth and elevation for different ammunition based upon the range and environmental conditions. The FCC console enables the gunner to key in ammunition type, range, meteorological parameters, mean point of impact, and bore sighting range, etc.

The driver's passive night periscope (DPNP) provides night driving capability to the driver of the Abhay. The DPNP is based on the image intensification technology using 2nd generation image intensifier tube, a fast optical system as OG, and a binocular eye piece for smooth and comfortable vision.

The laser warning system reduces vehicle's vulnerability to various kinds of laser assisted weapon threats by providing audio and visual warnings of threat to the crew for timely initiation of appropriate countermeasures.

Modifications have been done to the existing bore muzzle TXP-1-515 of BMP-II to suite the requirement of bore sighting and zeroing of 40 mm gun of Abhay.

Powe-to-weight ratio : 24 hp/ton

Maximum gradient : 35º

Vertical step climbing : 0.8 m to 0.9 m

Cruising range : 400 km

Cross-country speed : 35 kmph

Speed on road : 70 kmph

Fully automatic transmission

Hydro gas suspension

A weapon mix of 40 mm caliber gun, 7.62 mm machine gun and 30 mm grenade launcherHigh velocity 40 mm APFSDS type ammunition and HE ammunition against bunkers

Abhay: The Salient FeaturesMobility

Fire Power

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Ä

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Ä

Ä

Ä

Fire control computer.

Technology

12

Augu

st 2

009

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Second generation antitank guided missile (ATGM) with a range of 75 m to 4000 mThermal imager sight for night observationLRF for rangingDigital fire control system for high accuracy fire

All around against small arms

Medium caliber cannon protection from front

NBC protection

Integrated fire detection and suppression system

Laser warning system

Weight : 23 ton

Crew : 3 + 7

Protection

VRDE

Nodal Lab

Development of Hull and turret structure, automotive system,

system Integration,

and testing

IRDE

Instruments

ARDE

Armament System

DMRL

Armour

HEMRL

Ammunition

CFEES

IFSS

DLJ

Protection System

DEBEL

Ergonomic Layout

CVRDE

Consultancy on all aspects

of

development

Abhay development programme: DRDO workcentres and their job assignments.

Dr AL Moorthy, Director, DESIDOC, Metcalfe House, Delhi

Dr BR Gandhe, Director of Armaments, DRDO

Director of Materials, DRDO

Shri R Shankar, Director of CV&E, DRDO Bhavan, New Delhi

Director of Naval Research & Development

DRDO

Shri Ranjit Elias, SO to SA to RM, DRDO Bhavan, New Delhi

Coordinator

Members

Bhavan, New Delhi

Dr Sudarshan Kumar, Bhavan, New Delhi

Cmde PK Mishra,

Bhavan, New Delhi

lEikndh; eaMy Editorial Committee

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àÉxÉÉäVÉ BÉÖEàÉÉ® cÆºÉ BÉÖEàÉÉ® Editor-in-Chief Assoc. Editor-in-Chief Editors Editorial Assistant Printing DistributionAL Moorthy Shashi Tyagi B Nityanand Dipti Arora SK Gupta RP Singh Manoj Kumar Hans Kumar