Peter Cairns

The two most obvious reasons to intervene quickly with the most mobile force possible, (largely ruling out airborne because of vulnerability to ground fire), are the extraction of friendly civilian personnel ( though there aren't many US citizeans, if it's a UN mandate, it could be EU, Russian, Chinese and probably asian). and secondly genocide. The deterioration of a domestic collapse that saw us in a Dafur/Rwanda/Kosovo situation wher armed units were literally exterminating civilians, would justify a Stryker type Force. If this has a weakness it's that when it comes to dieing civilians other than their own the UN/US/EU have previously done bugger all till it was time to count the bodies and organise some show trials. Still A "Humanitarian" need for rapid intervention would probably be the most "politically" acceptable back story for most. Peter.

The two most obvious reasons to intervene quickly with the most mobile force possible, (largely ruling out airborne because of vulnerability to ground fire), are the extraction of friendly civilian personnel ( though there aren't many US citizeans, if it's a UN mandate, it could be EU, Russian, Chinese and probably asian). and secondly genocide. The deterioration of a domestic collapse that saw us in a Dafur/Rwanda/Kosovo situation wher armed units were literally exterminating civilians, would justify a Stryker type Force. If this has a weakness it's that when it comes to dieing civilians other than their own the UN/US/EU have previously done bugger all till it was time to count the bodies and organise some show trials. Still A "Humanitarian" need for rapid intervention would probably be the most "politically" acceptable back story for most. Peter.

Well Iam for "Combat Mission:Power Rangers", Hell it's even got a theme tune. I got the idea from watching film of US troops in Iraq, and their seemed something oddly familiar about their mannerisms and behaviour all that " OK lets go" "kick Ass" and high fives. Then I got up one Satuarday morning about 7 am and found my five year old son jumping around the living room watching "Power rangers" on TV and it clicked. Probably almost every guy serviing in Iraq has been brought up on this crap and subconciously it comes through in the way the speak to each other and act when together. Peter.

A big factor in terms of construction is the age profile of many of these countries. Compared to the US let alone Europe many of these countries have something like half their population under 25. In addition many are undergoing rapid development, as a friend of mine said when I asked him what he thought of Cyprus after a hoilday there... " It will be nice when it's finished". Peter.

An additional factor in Afghanistan is altitude, living high above sea level all your life gives you a distinct advantage. I know the Royal Marines had problems when people who could carry a 100lb pack all day at sea level strated fainting after a couple of hours at 15,000ft. Body armour more than makes sense if you are close to transport and facing 5.54mm's, but in rough open country when you need to be able to move, it's not going to be much use if you get caught in the open by a Russian 14.5mm. You assess the situation and make a tactical choice and then cross your fingers you've got it right. Not very scientific but there you go. Peter.

I am back and am sober(ish) so heres another go. web page http://warfare.ru/?linkid=2479&catid=317ℑ=1387 http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2005/5/mine201.jpg ANTIHELICOPTER MINE Target detection range, m up to 1,000 Target speed, m/sec. up to 100 Field of fire Upper hemisphere Destruction range, m up to 150 Warhead type Explosively-formed projectile charge Destroying element speed, m/sec. up to 2,500 Time of transition to the active mode, sec. 15 Method of placement Manual, automatic (from vehicles) Manual placement time, min 5 Live item weight, kg 12 Remote control via radio channel The antihelicopter mine is designed to defeat targets by a high-speed explosively- formed penetrator at a range of up to 150 m. The mine detects a target by means of an acoustic system at a tange of up to 1 km, turns the warhead in the direction of the target, and scanning by means of an infrared sensor determines the real direction to the target and the moment of the warhead detonation.The mine can be placed both manually and using ground or aircraft delivery means. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2005/5/mine301.jpg http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2005/5/mine301-2.jpg OVERFLYING TOP-ATTACK ANTITANK MINE Container length, mm 1,000 Mine length, mm 900 Mass of the container with the mine, kg 25 Launching mass , kg 10 Warhead mass, kg 4.2 Speed, m/sec. up to 160 Armour penetration, mm 100 Calibre, mm 190 Warhead calibre, mm 140 Warhead type Explosively-Formed Projectile Charge Destroying element speed, m/sec. 1,700 The mine is intended to defeat any tanks and armoured vehicles at ranges of up to 100 m. The seismoacoustic system detects and identifies a target at a range of up to 120 m. Once the target is identified, the mine is ejected upright by means of a pyrotechnic catapult, then it is accelerated by means of a solid-propellant rocket engine to a speed of 160 m/sec. for 0.35 sec., and when the mine flies over the target, the warhead detonates. The speed of an explosively-formed penetrator is up to 1,700 m/sec. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/jan2005/2/osv96.jpg 12.7mm OSV-96 sniper rifle Cartridge 12.7x107mm sniper cartridge, 12.7mm cartridges with B-32, BZT, BS bullets Weight of rifle without optical sight, kg 12.9 Mode of fire single shot Max accurate firing range with optical sight, m 1800 Magazine capacity, rds 5 Overall dimensions, mm in folded position 1154x132x196 in firing position (with optical sight) 1746x386x381 Intended to accomplish general tactic sniping missions (engagement of flak vest-clad personnel and lightly armored equipment, protection of coasts from small vessels and demolition of sea mines), as an antisniper weapon (to incapacitate radars, missile/rocket launchers and artillery pieces, and parked aircraft). http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2001/VSS1.jpg VSS Calibre, mm 9 Muzzle velocity, m/s 290 Sighting range, m: 400/300 Magazine capacity, rds 10 Optical sight magnification 4x Night sight magnification 3.46x Length, mm 894 Bullet weight, g 16 Cartridge weight, g 23 Max weight of empty rifle w/o sights, kg 2.6 Cartridge, mm 9 x 39, sniping VSS Silenced Sniper Rifle is a principal component of the BSK silenced sniper system. The BSK system comprises a VSS special automatic sniper rifle, optical and night sights and a special 9 mm cartridge. The system is operational with the Russian special forces and it is used for covert missions. With this in view, the specialized rifle system is designed so as to ensure silent and flashless fire at a range of up to 400 m. In this respect the BSK system is essentially superior to silenced weapons using 9 mm cartridges. The rifle is provided with an automatic reloading system. The striker and trigger mechanism make it possible to deliver fire by single shots and in bursts. Ammunition is fed from a detachable 10-round magazine. It is also allowed to use 20-round magazines of the AS Silenced Assault Rifle. It is the automatic gas-operated weapon locked by 6 lugs with the bolt rotating about its longitudinal axis. The rifle has a detachable wooden stock. For convenience of firing the stock butt is furnished with a rubber pad. The rifle has a detachable arc-shaped double-row magazine. A special muzzle silencer is used to reduce the crack of the weapon. Safe handling of the rifle is ensured by the safety arrangements preventing discharge in case of the accidentally squeezed trigger, falls, blows or unlocked bore. The unified attachment bracket allows to use the sights developed on the basis of PSO-1 Day-light Optical Sight and 1PN51 Night Sight . It is easy to use the open type mechanical sight installed on all VSS rifles. The bullet of a sniper cartridge features optimal ballistic characteristics and a high efficiency at the target. In spite of a moderate muzzle velocity the bullet penetrates a vertically arranged 2 mm steel plate or a standard army helmet at a distance of 500 m retaining its lethal effect after penetration. The rifle can be disassembled into three parts for concealed and convenient carriage in a special container made as a brief-case of 450 x 370 x 140 mm. It is a matter of 30 to 60 seconds to assemble and make the rifle ready for fire. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/jan2005/2/6g30.jpg 6G-30 hand-held six-shot grenade launcher Round VOG-25, VOG-25P Caliber, mm 40 Weight w/t sling, kg 6.2 Practical rate of fire, rds/min 16 Max firing range, m 400 Overall dimensions, mm in firing position 690x145x280 in travelling position 520x145x200 Intended to engage manpower located in the open, in trenches and on reverse slopes of the terrain by flat and curved fire with the use of VOG-25 and VOG-25P fragmentation rounds. Owing to the high rate of fire, it can rapidly engage single targets and deliver a massive strike at group targets at ranges of 50 to 400 m. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/jan2005/2/gm94.jpg RPG GM-94 Caliber (mm): 43 Initial velocity of grenade, m\s 100 Range (m): 75, 150, 300 Capacity of shop, shots 3-4 Weight (kg): 11,5 GM-94 is developed for special forces of MVD(Internal Affairs Ministry). grenade charger stack GM-94 — This easy universal unautomatic weapon. It small weight high reliability are supplied due to the original designer's scheme. GM-94 has cylindrical tubular shop located above a trunk. From a left-hand side of a box is located the safety device. Shoulter cover combined. The shooting and with folded sh.b. is supposed, that allows to apply GM-94 in conditions of the limited space. For shooting from GM-94 the following types grenades are used: demolition, thermobaric, cumulative, lighting, gas, signal, marker with a rubber element. RPG-26, RPG-27, RShG-1 RPG-26 RPG-27 RShG-1 Calibre, mm 72.5 105 105 Type anti-tank anti-tank assault Weight, kg 2.9 8 8 Aiming range, m 250 200 200 Armour penetration, mm 500 Max obstacle penetration, not less than, mm: homogeneous armour after ERA penetration (normal) 750 reinforced concrete 1,000 1,500 brick 1,500 2,000 log-and-earth 2,400 3,700 Operational temperature range, °C ±50 ±50 ±50 Length, mm 770 1,155 1,155 The portable RPG-26 and RPG-27 RLs are disposable weapons with single-stage HE (RPG-26) and tandem HE (RPG-27) warheads designed to engage: tanks at any course angles; self-propelled gun mounts and other armoured materiel, manpower located in bunkers, permanent and log emplacements, light field fortifications and brick buildings. Disposable RShG-1 uses single-stage thermobaric warhead efficient against manpower sheltered in confined spaces of up to 300 cu. m or in open terrain within a radius of up to 10 m. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/january2004/rpg_29.jpg RPG-29 Caliber (mm): 105,2 Initial velocity of grenade, m\s 130 Range (m): 450 Weight (kg): 11,5 Calibre, mm 105 Round weight, kg 6.7 Grenade launcher weight, kg 11.5 Aimed fire range, m 500 Max obstacle penetration,up to, mm: homogeneous armour after penetration of explosive reactive armour (at normal) 750 reinforced concrete 1,500 brick 1,500 log-and-earth 3,700 Operational temperature range, °C ±50 The weapon is intended to engage hostile tanks, including those outfitted with explosive reactive armour, and other armoured vehicles. It is also used to suppress fire weapons and manpower in buildings and hardened bricks or concrete structures, as well as in log-and-earth shelters. In beginning of 80's was developed and accepted in service manual antitank grenade charger RPG-29 with a shot PG-29V. This modern weapon of motor-shooting branch for a defeat of all kinds of modern tanks armoured and not armoured engineering, and also alive force in defensive structures of a various type. The weapon, despite of essentially increased on a comparison with RPG-7 mass-dimensional performances, is simple and conveniently in operation, reliably and trouble-free in any climatic conditions. Combat account — Two persons. The grenade charger for convenience of operation is divided into two parts. In a marching position both parts find room(be located) in special detail for carring with one person. For want of reduction in combat position both parts incorporate by means of the special plug. On a grenade charger fasten the mechanism with the handle, persistent reversible plug and mechanical sight shock& -starting. The grenade charger is completed by an optical sight for shooting in daylight and gear of night vision for shooting at the night. The shot PG-29V consists from warhead and jet engine. Warhead is unified with PG-29V. The powder charge of a jet engine completely burns down within the limits of length of a grenade charger. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/jan2005/2/shmel2.jpg RPO Shmel Calibre, mm 93 (A) Length, mm 920 Weight of pack, kg 22 Firing range, m: 1000 Weight of flame thrower, kg 11 Weight of mixture, kg: 2.1 (thermobaric) Crew, men 1 The RPO-A Infantry Rocket Flame Thrower destroys covered weapon emplacements and disables light armoured and wheeled vehicles of the enemy. The RPO-Z sets fire to various buildings and installations, motor vehicles and open terrain. The RPO-D blinds with smoke the crews of fire emplacements and observation point of the enemy to help the flame-thrower operators fight. Each flame thrower is intended for a one shot only. The flame throwers are carried in backpacks. Each pack comprises two flame throwers. To transfer the weapons to firing position, the cotters holding the flame throwers must be pulled out. It takes 30 seconds to transfer the flame thrower to firing position. The weapon can be fired from standing, kneeling and prone positions and from a special trench using the same positions. The flame thrower comprises three main components: a container, shell (ammunition) assembly and motor. The container is used to carry and store the assembled flame thrower and launch the shell. The shell which allows the flaming thermobaric mixture to be delivered to the target and initiated. It consists of a cylinder filled with flaming mixture, an igniting-bursting charge and an inertia base-detonating fuze. The motor provides an initial velocity of 125 m/s to the shell and compensates for recoil in firing. For want of to development jet infantry flamethrower Smel ("Bumblebee") the problem of creation of the mass weapon for soldiers and subdividings chemical army, adequate(answering), on the one hand, requests of modern near fight was put, and with other - capable to replace artillery in difficult for it conditions: in mountains, in the occupied items for want of of limited visibility etc. The solution of this problem implied creation cheap in production both simple in circulation and operation of the weapon of a type a grenade charger adequate(answering) following requests: - High exactitude of shooting; - Small mass and dimensions; - Possibility of multiple objective application with efficiency of an operation on the targets at a level of field artillery. The problems of development of the similar weapon were put in many countries of the world from time of emerging on arms of armies manual antitank grenade chargers. "Shmel (Bumblebee)" is the weapon of one-time application and has three such as shots: flamet.-and with thermobaric, RPO-Z with ignition, RPO-D with smoke equipment. High exactitude, possibility of shooting are reached at the expense of application of the original scheme of start with separation in the channel of a trunk (container) of a drive and combat part. In "Bumblebee" powder drive is connected to the capsule and trunk - container by communications(connections), which for want of shot fail by powder gases expiring from a drive forwards - in a concavity between a drive and the capsule and back - out. Powder gases expiring forwards, pressure accelerate the capsule on length of a trunk - container, and back - jet draft keep a drive from transitions for want of shot. Simultaneously part powder of gases through specially profiled the clearance between the capsule and trunk - container goes in a concavity of the latter before a forward cover, drops it and outside pressure on a wall of the capsule counterbalances internal pressure on it(her) filling of a mixture of the capsule called(caused) by transhipment for want of shot. Such circuit(scheme) of a shot has allowed to decide a number of problems: - To reduce a mass of tank of the capsule and scatter it aoeuiie of a velocity; - To supply(ensure) dynamic steadiness iaiaiaoa for want of shot and to direct transition of the weapon for want of it forwards; - To reduce length of a trunk - container. RPO with success has passed check in a course(!during) of battle(dashing) operations in a number of local conflicts. On evaluations of the foreign and domestic military experts, iaiaiao on demolition, ignition and smoke to effect on main kinds of the purposes does not concede 105-152-ii to artillery shells, and with acceptance it on arms of Russian army each soldier has received at the order "artillery". Developed RPO-and till now has not analogs abroad. Unique domestic analog "Tanin" (the capsule with thermobaric by equipment to regular antitank to a grenade charger of reusable application RPG-7), developed in a 1996, considerably concedes iaiaiaoo "Bumblebee" on main battle(dashing) performances Practically all configuration items iaiaiaoa "Bumblebee" differ by a technological simplicity and can be made on multiuse mission equipment used in a mechanical engineering. Main mass of detailses forming iaiaiao and it knots, receive by cold punching leaf of hire, processing by cutting of round hire both pressing of plastic and rubber. Elemination can make a pipe of a trunk - container produced by a method of winding of a fiberglass on design and tank of the capsule and pwoder of a drive, made by a rotational extract. However these operations are widely applied practically in all countries producing the jet weapon, in particular(personally) i?ioeaioaieiaua grenade charger s of one-time application. RPO-A (thermobaric) is intended for a defeat of the covered firing means in city, in field conditions and in mountains, and also for destruction buildings, motor transportation and light armored of engineering. On a desroying operation on main kinds of the purposes does not concede 105 - 152-mm artillery. Ammo RPO-A for want of explosion creates overpressure 0,4-0,8 kg/sm2 on a distance(span) 5 m from a point of explosion on open district and 4-7 kg/sm2 - in a location of volume 90 m3. The shock wave can "to become numb" in shelter etc.. Impulse of pressure for want of explosion of a thermobaric mixture, and consequently, and it the desroying ability is much higher, than at traditional explosive, for exampleTNT, that for want of explosion in structures and structures, as a rule, calls destruction of walls and between floors of overlappings. In a zone of detonation transformations of a thermobaric mixture full "burn-out" of oxygen happens and temperature above 800 iN develops. RPO-Z (ignition) is intended for creation of landscape fires and fires in buildings, structures and warehouses of a petroleum PRODUCTS. On igniting ability exceeds all modern ink and capsules Flamet. RPO-Z in locations of volume 90-100 m3 creates volumetric burning of a mixture during 5-7n, ignites subjects from combustible materials (tree, fabrics etc.) and on open district creates landscape fires at the expense of formation the approximately 20 centers of primary fire on general(common) square up to 300 i2. RPO-D (Smoke) is intended for creation of smoking veils blinding accounts of firing means, and untransferable for an alive force of conditions in a various kind safety. On blinding ability does not concede 152-mm smoke to an artillery shell. RPO-D will derivate not looked through auiiao? a veil of length 55- 90 i on open district with a life time 1,2-2 min, in various structures of volume up to 1500 m3 creates the centers of a fire, not desroying a structure from a stone, brick etc., and for want of it, on the one hand, creates untransferable conditions for the unprotected alive force, and with other - completely blinds the alive force, protected by gas masks, on time 3-5 min. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/jan2005/2/kitl2.jpg KITOLOV-2M and KITOLOV-2 Max. firing range, km 12 9 Hit probability 0.8 ... 0.9 0.8 ... 0.9 Projectile calibre, mm 122 120 Projectile weight, kg 27 25 Projectile length, mm 1,225 1,225 Warhead type HE-Frag HE-Frag Warhead/explosive weight, kg 12/5.5 10/5 Illumination range for tank - type target, km 7 7 Artillery systems capable to fire: KITOLOV-2M projectile: 122 mm D-30A Howitzer 122 mm 2S1 Self-propelled Howitzer KITOLOV-2 projectile: 120 mm "Vena", "Nona-SVK", "Nona-K" "Nona-M" Artillery Systems The 122mm KITOLOV-2M and 120 mm KITOLOV-2 guided artillery systems effectively destroy moving and fixed armoured targets and fortifications by first shot without fire adjustment. They provide 10 to 15- fold reduction of ammunition expenditure and 5 to 10- fold reduction of time required to fulfil the combat mission. The KITOLOV-2M/KITOLOV-2 guided projectiles can be used by conventional artillery units ensuring destruction of dispersed targets (up to 800 m from each other) without readjustment of fire settings . No checks are required for deployed system. Fire preparation and firing are identical with standard procedures set for conventional projectiles. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/jan2005/2/met.jpg AT-13 / 9K115 Metis (M) Competitors: FGM-148 Javelin Compare Armour penetration behind ERA, mm 800 Warhead types tandem hollow-charge, HE Firing range (day/night), m: maximum 1500, min 80 Missile calibre, mm 130 Average missile speed, m/s 180 Weight, kg: missile 13.8 launcher 10.0 IR system weight (with power supply cells and bottles), kg 6.0 Operating temperature range, °C -30 ... +50 The METIS-M ATGM system is designed to defeat modern armoured targets with improved protection, including those equipped with explosive reactive armour, as well as fortifications and weapon emplacements, and other pinpoint targets. The system employs missiles with warheads of two types. The first is a tandem hollow-charge warhead designed to destroy modern and future tanks with reactive armour. The second is a fuel-air explosive warhead. It provides blast and incendiary effects comparable to those of large calibre artillery rounds and is capable of destroying light armoured vehicles, fortifications and small-size targets. The METIS-M missile is roll-stabilized in flight and the tracking flare is mounted eccentrically so that it traces a circle as the missile rolls. The IR tracking system derives deviation from the centre of this circle and steering sense from the movement of the flare. The missile is ejected from its launch container by a booster motor stage, then the main rocket motor ignites. This allows the weapon to be fired from a confined space, though a clear area of at least 2 m behind the launch tube is necessary. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2001/Kornet1.jpg AT-14 / 9K135 Kornet l Competitors: FGM-148 Javelin Compare Launcher weight, kg 26 Thermal sight weight, kg 11 Guidance system semiautomatic laser beam riding Missile weight (with container), kg 29 Warhead types tandem hollow-charge, HE Firing range, m 100 ... 5,500 (100 ... 3,500 m at night) Missile calibre, mm 152 Missile length, mm 1,200 Cyclic rate of fire rds/min 1 ... 2 Operating temperature range, °C -20 ... +60 The KORNET-E ATGM system is intended to destroy modern and future tanks protected with explosive reactive armour, hardened point targets (i.e., hull-down tanks, pillboxes, fortifications) and small-size targets, as well as structures and troops in the open. The key features of the KORNET-E ATGM system are semi-automatic laser beam guidance system and thermal imaging sight for night operation. The launcher unit is easy to carry and mount in different types of vehicles owing to its small dimensions, light weight, and simplicity in disassembling. Modular design and small-size of its guidance system allow this weapon to be used on various vehicles. The system stands out owing to its high immunity to jamming of laser beam guidance channel in combat operations. A thermal sight is provided to fire at night. The system can be used in various climatic conditions and geographic regions, in high mountainous areas and over a water surface. The effective tandem hollow-charge warhead is capable to engage existing and future tanks at any angles of approach. The HE warhead with thermobaric effect can effectively destroy various fortifications, missile launchers, and soft-skinned targets. The system does not require tests during its storage and employment. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/june1999/Toc200.jpg TOS-1 Buratino Flamethrower Type: flamethrower Year: 1998 Firing range (m): 400-3500 Calibre (mm): 220 Launching tubes(pcs): 30 Full salvo time(sec) 7.5 Weight(tons) 42 Max speed (km/h) 60 Range(km) 550 Crew: 3 The TOS-1-4 Buratino system, which first gained widespread notice in combat in Chechnya, fires a 220mm fuel-air explosive missile. This type of munition releases a large cloud of flammable gas and cause massive explosions that can clear out bunkers and other fortifications. Buratino is a 30-barrel 220mm multiple rocket launcher system mounted on a T-72 tank chassis. It is found in the chemical troops' separate flame thrower battalions. It is an observed-fire system with a maximum effective range of 3.5 kilometers (other sources say it has a maximum range of five kilometers). The minimum range is 400 meters. The rocket mounts an incendiary or a thermobaric warhead. The zone of ensured destruction from a Buratino salvo is 200 x 400 meters. The official designation of the Buratino is the TOS-1. The thermobaric warhead is filled with a combustible liquid. The liquid is most likely filled with powdered tetranite. When the warhead explodes, the liquid is vaporized creating an aerosol cloud. When the cloud mixes with oxygen, it detonates, first creating a high temperature cloud of flame followed by a crushing overpressure. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2001/Djigit.jpg DJIGIT (SA-18) Missiles per launcher 2 Crew, persons 1 Firing modes in sequence single, salvo, pursuit, head-on Reloading time, min 2.5 ... 3 Temperature range, °C -44 to +50 Max launcher weight, kg 105 On-ground dimensions, mm: diameter, across supports 2,315 height, (w/tent) 1,520 folded 880 ramp width 1,200 The DJIGIT launch system is designed to fire IGLA missiles. It improves system's mobility, increases the number of firing channels per operator, decreases his fatigue and enhances overall effectiveness. The launch system includes: a launcher mount for two missiles; equipment of the motor vehicle which mounts the launcher with additional six missiles; maintenance facilities and training equipment. It can be deployed on mobile carriers or on the ground. The unique feature of the system is its ability to launch two missiles against one target. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/september1999/0101.jpg It has been developed as a result of joint work of a number of research institutes, design bureaus and plants under the supervision of the KBM Engineering Design Bureau, a well-known as a developer of Tochka (SS-21), Oka (SS-23) and Tochka-U missile systems. The Kolomna Engineering Design Bureau is the leading developer of precision-guided tactical and theater missiles for the Ground Forces. In creative cooperation with leading research and design organizations and plants of the defense industry as well as the Defense Ministry Research Institute, the KBM Engineering Design Bureau has created a number of missile systems (division-level Tochka (SS-21) with a range of up to 70 km, army-level Oka (SS-23) with a range of up to 400 km, corps-level Tochka-U with a range of up to 120 km) that superseded the first generation missile systems of the Ground Forces (9K72 with 8K14-1 liquid-propellant missile, 9K52 with the 9M21unguided solid-propellant missile,ensuring effective engagement only if nuclear-tipped). The particular features of the aforementioned systems are: high accuracy of fire, a short time of readiness for launch, independence of combat assets, a high degree of prelaunch preparation automation and sufficiently high effectiveness of conventional warheads. That was evidently the reason to include the Oka missile system in the Soviet-American treaty on the elimination of their intermediate range and shorter range missiles, although its maximum guaranteed range was only 400 km. The conclusion of the 1987 INF Treaty and the decision not to use theater nuclear weapons set a number of principally new requirements for modern missile systems: - use of non-nuclear destruction weapons only; - precise accuracy of fire; - control throughout the entire flight path; - broad range of effective warheads; - availability of battle management automation and information support systems, including preparation of standard information for correction and terminal guidance systems; - possibility of integration into global satellite navigation systems (GSNSs), such as GLONASS and NAVSTAR; - ability to engage hardened targets; - increase in the number of engaged targets per unit of time; - ability to penetrate air and missile defenses; - capability to engage moving targets. To meet the above requirements, the KBM Engineering Design Bureau has created the Iskander-E missile system. The Iskander-E missile system has embodied the best scientific, technical and design achievements in the field of theater missile systems; in terms of its design and high combat effectiveness it is an absolutely new-generation weapon which outperforms existing Scud-B, Tochka-U, Lance, ATACMS, Pluto and other missile systems. The Iskander-E missile system is designed to engage: - hostile fire weapons (SAM and missile batteries); - fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft at parking areas; - air and missile defense facilities; - command posts and communications nodes; - vital pinpoint and area targets; - critical civilian facilities. Owing to the implementation of terminal control and guidance methods, control throughout the entire flight path, a broad range of powerful warheads and integration of the onboard control system with various correction and homing systems as well as a high probability of combat mission accomplishment in heavy hostile jamming environments, type targets are engaged by one or two Iskander-E missiles, which in terms of effectiveness is equivalent to the use of a nuclear munition. For the first time in the world a missile system with a firing range not exceeding 300 km is capable of accomplishing all combat missions using conventional warheads and having two missiles on a launcher, which substantially increases the fire power potential of missile units. Iskander-E missile system's features ensure: - highly precise and effective engagement of various types of targets; - possibility of concealed preparation, combat duty and delivery of effective missile strikes; - automatic computation and input of a missile flying mission by the launcher devices; - high probability of combat mission accomplishment in heavy hostile jamming environments; - high probability of trouble-free missile operation during launch preparation and in flight; - high tactical maneuverability due to cross-country combat vehicles mounted on all-wheel drive, chassis, and strategic mobility owing to transportability of the missile system by all types of transport facilities, including transport aircraft; - automation of missile unit battle management, immediate processing of intelligence data and their dissemination to appropriate command levels; - long service life and ease of operation. In terms of performance characteristics, the Iskander-E missile fully complies with the provisions of the missile technology non-proliferation agreement. This is a deterrent weapon for local conflicts and a strategic weapon for countries with limited living space. A long firing range, permitting the use of the system from the depth of own troops location, and a short time of stay on a launch site make the system virtually invulnerable to conventional destruction weapons. The research conducted by specialists of leading Russian military research centers has demonstrated that in terms of the effectiveness-cost ratio the Iskander-E missile system outperforms the best foreign counterparts by five to eight times. The system structure, its control systems, automated battle management and information support make it possible to promptly meet to new requirements without substantial modification of combat assets and, as a result, to guarantee a long lifespan. Provision is made for the modernization of the Iskander-E system to improve the accuracy of missile strike, reduce missile expenditure to one piece per target and adapt the system to the transportation and electronic facilities of a potential customer. Continuous (or periodic) maintenance of system components by highly qualified Russian specialists is also possible. The composition of the missile system makes it possible to ensure the full cycle of its combat employment, including battle management, information support, maintenance, and crew training, without additional expenditures. The composition can be specified in a contract in compliance with customer's requirements. In addition, at foreign customer' request, missiles can be outfitted with various warheads. In terms of the attained combat potential level, the Iskander-E missile system, which is at the final stage of flight tests, is unrivaled in the world and is a 21st century weapon. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/january2004/rgd33.jpg RGD-33 Stick Grenade, Defensive/Offensive Ruchnaya Granata Degtyareva ("Hand Grenade of the Degtyarev design") Model 1933 used during WWII and after, thru Vietnam. Sheet metal construction, with a removable outer fragmentation sleeve. Time delay fuze with a cocked striker, activated when thrown, utilizing a unique mechanical system. A most complex grenade design. The RGD-33 was the next generation replacement to the W.W.I. Model 1914/30 stick grenade, which also had a released igniter fuze mechanism. As a collectable, the functional mechanics of this design cannot be displayed without making a cut-away, as the parts are all crimped shut when manufactured. The grenade body (a.k.a. "Head" or "Pot") contained all the explosive elements, as well as a coiled and segmented internal fragmentation belt. It is a sealed unit, crimped at the base. The top hatch rotates to open a central tube where the fuze/detonator was inserted. The removable fragmentation sleeve was used as required for defensive purposes. The fuze/detonator assembly, body and handle were packaged and transported separately. The handle consists of two major assemblies, an internal handle tube with an cam insert, and an external handle holding the firing pin clip. A strong coiled spring joins the two, pulling them together. Deployment in the Field: o The grenade body and handle assembly are screwed together, tight. o The external thumb safety switch is moved to the right. This locks the handle assembly. o Assembled grenades were carried in canvas pouches. Fuzes were placed in a special pocket, each in a paper or cloth wrapper and only inserted into the grenade immediately before use. Preparation for Use: o The thumb safety is moved left, unlocking the inner and outer handles. o While holding the head, the outer handle is pulled back, twisted clock-wise and pushed forward. This cocks the mechanism, indicated by a red indicator to the right of the thumb safety. (Only the outer handle moves, the inner tube is held tight to the head by a locking washer.) o The thumb safety is pushed right so that the red dot is covered. The handle is now cocked and locked. o The fuze/detonator is inserted from the top, pressed in against an internal spring lever (Fuze Safety). The top cover is rotated and closed over the fuze. Operation: o The thumb safety is moved to the left, exposing the red dot. o A crisp and rapid throwing motion is required to activate the mechanism. When thrown, the grenade head shifts relative to the outer handle and frees the firing pin clip from the small notch in the internal insert. The forward momentum of the head, aided by the handle spring, twists and pulls the firing pin clip back until it reaches the long slot, then is snapped forward, pulled by that same spring, forcing the firing pin into the primer, starting the fuze delay. About 3-? seconds later the grenade explodes. While examining the two grenade examples available for this page, it seems this hand grenade can be found with both left and right twist springs. (Curious detail) The cut-away shows a right-hand twist design. Turn the handle clock-wise and you push against the spring. A left hand twist would pull the spring. http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2001/02_01_07.jpg http://warfare.ru/0702ey70/update/feb2001/02_01_03.jpg http://warfare.ru/?linkid=1785&catid=245ℑ=368 BMP-T The Urals Transport Machinery Design Bureau Federal State Unitary Enterprise and the Uralvagonzavod Production Association State Unitary Enterprise demonstrated for the first time a new tank support combat vehicle (Russian acronym BMPT) at the 2nd Urals Exhibition of Armaments and Military Equipment held recently in Nizhni Tagil (Sverdlovsk Region, Russia). The concept of such a unique combat vehicle was conceived long ago, however its implementation was delayed. In 1997, the BTR-T heavy armored personnel carrier, developed on the basis of the T-55 battle tank, was demonstrated at the Exhibition of Armaments and Military Equipment in Omsk (Russia). Now, drawing on experience gained operating armored vehicles in local conflicts, designers have developed the BMPT combat vehicle on the basis of the most mass-produced T-72 battle tank. The combat vehicle features armor protection equal to that of the battle tank and powerful armament capable of neutralizing and defeating antiarmor-capable targets and manpower, and operates in a common battle formation.These features help significantly increase combat effectiveness of tank units and decrease their losses from enemy close-combat assets. The BMPT’s hull is the same as that of the T-72 battle tank. It is provided with explosive reactive armor (ERA) on the frontal armor plate, ERA-applied screens to protect side plates, as well as grilled shields to protect the hull rear. The welded turret is provided with a filler and built-in ERA. The distinguishing feature of the BMPT combat vehicle is its low-profile turret mounted on a tank chassis. The turret is equipped with up-to-date weapons for defeating antiarmor-capable targets and enabling tanks to advance, leaving close antiarmor-capable targets for the BMPT to take care of. The BMPT crew consists of five men. The BMPT armament can effectively defeat both lightly armored ground and aerial targets and heavily armored tank-type ground targets. Its main armament consists of the 30mm 2A42 automatic gun and coaxially-mounted AG-30 or AGS-17A grenade launcher stabilized in two planes, and the Kornet ATGM system provided with a semiautomatic jamproof laser-guided system. The commander’s and gunner’s workstations are equipped with identical PNK ranging sights enabling the commander and the gunner to effectively fire all types of weapons from both commander’s and gunner’s workstations. The BMPT is additionally armed with two AG-30 grenade launchers or two 7.62mm PKTM machine guns with an electromechanical drive and a day/night sight combined with the Agat-MR optronic sight. The additional weapons are arranged on fenders. The turret-mounted 7.62mm machine gun provided with an electromechanical drive and the PNK sight serves as an auxiliary weapon. The BMPT has a built-in dozer equipment for digging in. The vehicle can be equipped with the KMT-8 treadway mine plow and the EMT electromagnetic device. A diesel-electric set rated at 5 kW is installed in an armored compartment on the right fender. The crew compartment is equipped with a system providing for crew protection against NBC weapons. It is also equipped with an automatic quick-operation two-discharge fire extinguishing system. The System 902A automatic smoke grenade launching system serves as a camouflage means. Modernization of the T-72-type battle tanks into the BMPT combat vehicle can change tactics of combat actions and significantly increase fighting efficiency of tank units. We hope that this project will attract attention of potential partners and buyers of armor materiel. http://warfare.ru/?linkid=2391&catid=245ℑ=1219 ERA tiles and combined screens for IFV All-round protection against PG-9S grenades: - with ? 0.8 probability in the areas covered by ERA tiles; - with ? 0.5 probability in the areas covered by grill screens. [crossreferences: used by ] BMP-3 No breach of the main armor when hit by AT grenades. Protection against AP bullets: - 12.7mm B-32 AP bullets - point-blank; - 14.5mm B-32 AP bullets - at 50m. Hull protection against 30mm AP ammunition at firing angles of ±30° at 0m. Reduction of irretrievable losses of vehicles by a factor of 5 Increase of possibility of vehicle combat efficiency restoration by a factor of 8 Reduction of irretrievable losses of the crew and troops by a factor of 12 Total weight of the kit: 4,150 kg. Well Thats enough to be going on with I think... Peter.

Don't know how many of these the Syrians may or may not have but as it's set in 2007, some could potentially turn up in CM:SF. The mines section is interesting as it includes, anti helicopter, multiple launchable, and a rocket assisted top attack mine. The 12.7mm sniper rifle also aught my eye. It's good on current ATGMs too. The small arms section gives some possibles for special forces, including grenade launchers and RPG's like Shmel. It could well be that they have access to some stuff that makes the IED's in Iraq look like fireworks. Hope I haven't spolit anyones weekend. Peter.

Oh and there is this one too. http://warfare.ru/?linkid=1664&catid=261ℑ=437 AT-14 / 9K135 Kornet Discuss Email Video Additional Competitors: FGM-148 Javelin Compare Launcher weight, kg 26 Thermal sight weight, kg 11 Guidance system semiautomatic laser beam riding Missile weight (with container), kg 29 Warhead types tandem hollow-charge, HE Firing range, m 100 ... 5,500 (100 ... 3,500 m at night) Missile calibre, mm 152 Missile length, mm 1,200 Cyclic rate of fire rds/min 1 ... 2 Operating temperature range, °C -20 ... +60 The KORNET-E ATGM system is intended to destroy modern and future tanks protected with explosive reactive armour, hardened point targets (i.e., hull-down tanks, pillboxes, fortifications) and small-size targets, as well as structures and troops in the open. The key features of the KORNET-E ATGM system are semi-automatic laser beam guidance system and thermal imaging sight for night operation. The launcher unit is easy to carry and mount in different types of vehicles owing to its small dimensions, light weight, and simplicity in disassembling. Modular design and small-size of its guidance system allow this weapon to be used on various vehicles. The system stands out owing to its high immunity to jamming of laser beam guidance channel in combat operations. A thermal sight is provided to fire at night. The system can be used in various climatic conditions and geographic regions, in high mountainous areas and over a water surface. The effective tandem hollow-charge warhead is capable to engage existing and future tanks at any angles of approach. The HE warhead with thermobaric effect can effectively destroy various fortifications, missile launchers, and soft-skinned targets. The system does not require tests during its storage and employment. Peter.

I think this is more the kind of thing you need to be worrying about. The 9M123-2 and 9M123F-2 missiles The system uses the 9M123-2 Hrizantema (Chrysantemum) ATGM which has a maximum range of 6000 m. and a maximum speed of 400 m./s. which makes it supersonic. It has a tandem HEAT warhead which can penetrate over 1000 mm. of steel armor protected with ERA. It can be guided in both ACLOS or SACLOS mode. The missile is stored and carried in a container which is also used as a launch tube. A missile with a HE warhead is also developed and it is designated 9M123F-2 (F for Fugasnaya - high-explosive). It is inteded for destroying various battlefield fortifications and manpower. Technical characteristics for the 9K123 Hrizantema ATGM system: Guidance: ACLOS (radar guidance in MMW) SACLOS (laser beam guidance) Service entry: 1998 (expected) Missile: Designation: 9M123-2 Warhead type: HEAT(t) Maximum range: 6000 m. Flight speed: ~ 400 m./s. (supersonic) Penetration: over 1000 mm. of RHA Propellant: solid fuel First-round hit probability: over 95% (with ACLOS) Firing Post: Designation: 9P157-2 (tank destroyer). Peter.

Well what I think we have learned so far is that if BF thought the S**T had hit the Fan for daring to do anything other that a fully historically accurate WW2setting, they can expect to be burnt at the stake for heracy if they even touch a fantasy game. Peter.

No Steve, I don't think you mean "Small World", I think you mean " Sad Me". Peter.

The assumption seems to be that suppression fire against ATGM crews won't start till the thing is fired. I'd expect ahead and falnks to be covered at all times for infantry movemnet and suppression fire to be piled on anything that even hinted at an ATGM. The key isn't whether you actually hit the firer, but whether he thinks you might and bottles his shot because of it. I know an ex SAS man who was doing contract work in Iraq beside US National Guard and he and his mates thought it was a huge laugh that the NG guys would hit the dirt when they heard a mortar round, as within seconds they could tell that it wouldn't land within a ball park of them I am not getting at the NG, it's just about experience and perception. ARH's (Advanced rec helo) would also have a crucial role here particularly on the flanks. Another factor no one has mentioned is smoke simple obsuring the view to the target in the terminal stage,could make a difference. Peter.

No 1 " Die Running Tyre of Western Imperialism". No 2 "Are you sire this will stop an M1A2". Peter.

I am fully with dillweed on this one ( and have called my therapist in dispair). One of the things that threw me at first about CMBB was the poor performance of the T-34 which i expected to be far better, and if you look at the specs, for armour speed gun and the like, it at first seems to be poorly modelled. However much of this difference is actually down to crew quality and in that respect it highlights that getting the technical specs right is only a part of the game. In the early discussions on Soviet anti ATGM systems like Drozh (?) there was a wealth of technical detail , but no one mentioned that by far the most effective defence system the soviets have yet developed is the F**Kin 14.5mm HMG on the turret, Once those steel cored buggers start ripping in to your position the technical specs of your ATGM go out the window and it's all about balls. Like Dill I think it is in that area, making allowances for human behaviour, ( ie ******* Yourself) that starts to matter more than the exact representation of this specific model of a particular missile against a certain version of an upgrade to the armour on a particular model of a tank type. If they get it right it will be a classic, if they get they get distracted by the technology the will miss the target and get a manufacturers promo. Peter. P.S. Sorry about the language, i've had friends round and I've had a few....

I an not the greatest fan of the Robert jordan books, ( having said that I've read all ten). But as Steve mentioned at some time perhaps doing a "Fantasy" Cm, I think it should be considered a possible. It has a well defined world, with a wealth of info, on armies troop types costums and even national tactics. In addition it seems to me to have a "Magic" that is probably well suited and adaptable to work in CM, somewhat better that the lord of the rings or just a made up version. Obviously they would have to way up the issue of Royalties to the author with the potential of tapping in to the existing WoT fan base, but I think it's got potential. Peter.

Steve, I agree Iran isn't likely but as to your reasoning on Nato capabilities you are missing the point. Most Western European Democracies are reducing defence expenditure and not modernising and developing substantial projection capabilities because they see no need. They don't want the likes of Iran to develop nuclear weapons, but if they do they'll live with it like they lived with the Soviet Union. They favoured containment over war with Iraq for the same reason, having seen containment and war, they prefer war. They may make noises about the importance of Nato and the like but the truth is Europeans are voting with their wallets. There is no immediate major threat to Europe and so what they have old or not is more than adequate for their current needs. As to war in the Gulf, well why bother. The US seems to have a fixation with somehow controlling events their for strategic reasons, but the European attitude is "You can't drink oil". regardless of who's in power they will either sell us oil or be poor. Long before the collapse of the Soviet union it was already europes biggest supplier of gas. Whether it be diplomatic partnership or the expansion of the EU to include the former eastern block and eventually with luck Turkey, the European view is that economic partnership , integration and sharing soverignty are better guarentees of peace and prospertity that the ability to go over their and teach them a lesson. So it's not so much about the lack of capacity as an ernest belief that intervening in the likes of Iran is a bloody stupid thing to do. Slowly but steadily continental europe is getting out of the war business, and becoming more like South America in terms of maintaining only modest capabilities for immediate self defence. I live in Scotland to the East is Nato Norway that spends almost 2% of GDP on defence, to the west neutral Ireland that spends less than half that. I have heard a lot of people say that Ireland can't really defend itself, but I have yet to here a convincing arguement as to it being in any real danger. It seems to me that Irelands defence spending seems pretty much right for both the level of threat and their foreign policy objectives. As to your point on the regime in Iran, it kind of runs counter to the recent landslide presidential election result that saw a hardline working class mayor come to power. In the run up to the election few in the west predicted that in part because their information was comming predomiantly from the middle classes, journalists and even bloggers. The problem is we weren't listening to the people at the bottom, because we had no direct links to them. So we got a distorted picture, a bit like over reliance on Iraqi exiles, who had their own reasons to paint a picture of Iraq ready to throw flowers at liberators. I think the Iranian revolution has a lot more life in it yet, true it will evolve and change, but I am dubious of the notion that their is some hierachy of governemt that goes from tribes and clans through kings to ultimately western style democracy at the top. Don't get me wrong, I think democracy is great, and wouldn't want to live under anything else, but the notion that it is an evolutionary thing rather than just one of many constantly changing forms of government is for me false. Putins Russian is already more like that of Breshniev that Gorbachov or Yeltsin. True there has been privatisation and economic reform as in China, but if you drop the communist bit about social control and have a single party dominating the political system for the good of the nation and it's people then you are pretty close to "National Socialism". Different forms of government evolve and change and a strong , (all be it authoritarian by our standard) central islamic one in Iran has very chnce of enduring for decades to come. You may not like it but their really is little indication other than wishful thinking that it will change. Peter.

(we got English covered thanks)... should that be "we have English covered thankyou". Peter.

Looking at the BF replys since SF was announced I think it's clear that all the BF team are taking turns at overseeing this forum. Now I wouldn't be surprised if the are begging and bribing each other to do other things " let me do that mind numbingly boring coding for you while you moderate". I've come to the conclusion that they all have different tolerances. Steve. I think you did really well as you took the first major shift and actually moved things along quite nicely, however by about day three the cracks were showing, and as I haven't seen you for a day or so now, you've either been given some time off, or are in that nice padded room that they have at the back of the office. Kwazy Dog You'd be clever by keeping your replys short and not really engaging with the out and out psychos, so so far it's top marks. MadMatt Good start, but over the last few posts there are clear signs of carpet chewing and I have to say I think if you don't take something soon, you might be joining Steve in the room at the back. Moon Haven't come across you yet, are you still to do your shift, or are you being kept in reserve to step in when one of the others finally flips. Peter.

Tagwyn Simple Iran is to big..... Air strikes maybe, ground forces no way. Peter.

What about "Rozan Kabar" That's what the guy who used to turn in to animals in the arabian nights cartoon in the Banana splits TV show used to say. Don't know what it means but I'd put it in for a laugh. Peter.

Matt I sympathise in general given some of tha abuse that BF has been getting lately, but I think he should perhaps be a bit gentler. CM has thousands of satisfied customers, delighted with their games, and that shows as if not more from the volume of sales and longevity of the products, as the reply and use of the forums. However there are a small minority of people who have over the years slipped in to the delusion that they are somehow a part of BF or have a special status, they're not just customers, they see themselves as partners, members of a family and despite gentle efforts to reconnect thm with reality they just can't get it. So I'd ask for more sympathy for the poor afflicted few who have had there dreams crushed by BF's cruel decision to produce anything other than the perfect game of their immaginations. In their world they were geared up for the game of all games and everyone of them expecting a version that was different from every other. For them the announcement of CM:SF, has been traumatic, you've crushed their ( totally unrealistic and unfounded ) dreams, and I think you shouldn't be so hard on them. I mean asking them to grow up for petes'sake, Like that's ever going to happen with people who's posts run in to the thousands, next you'll be telling me they actually have lives away from this forum. This Forum is pretty much, all the have and the close brush with reality that the announcement of CM:SF has been, has had a deep psycological effect on them that may take many of them a long time to recover from, and sad though it may be some might never recover atr all. We can hope that some are jolted back towards reality to join the rest of us , only time will tell. Peter.

A mortar on a pickup truck seems to be the option, that and things like the old Chinese 105mm 4x2 towed rocket launcher that can be abandoned. In addition heavy counter battery fire into built up area might be exactly the response they are after. The point of a laser guided round is that if you can take out a Stryker with one round, then you give the CB teams less time and targets to get a fix on. Of course the other possibility is for someone to come up with a "HARM" style artillery round which homed in on the CB radar, which in order to be effective has to be kept on all the time. Peter.

I don't know if this will in any way feature in the game or it's scenarios, but it seems to me a peculuarly American thing. From all the accounts I have read about the British army (particularly the SAS, SBS, Para's and Marines), when you are dead you are dead and the idea that you risk your life to retrieve a corpse, or that one of your best mates would die to retrieve yours, (so that someone back home you probably didn't like could cry crocodile tears over a coffin) just seems madness. I remember talking to an ex para about "Black Hawk Down" and he was certain that if they had been in the situation, it would have been a viking funeral ( The pilot burns with his ship) and they'd have been out of there. Anyone who had suggested that they form a defensive perimeter to get the bodies out would have been told, to do it themselves on there own if they wanted and left to it. When exactly did all this start and become a fixation, as certainly in WW2 people seemed to accept that if you couldn't find a body well that was that. Peter.

Calibre: 35 mm Muzzle velocity: 200 m/s Max range: 1,750 m Weight: (Light config, with scope) 12 kg; (Heavy config) 20 kg Elevation: 10 to 70 degrees Horizontal: 360 degrees Fire rate: 500 rds/ min Tought I'd let people see this as well, best get ready early. Peter.

Don't know if Syria has theese as I haven't been able to track anything down, but I thought I'd post what I found just to spoil things for those who think SF will be a walk over for the US... Peter. The Gran Guided Weapon System for 120mm Mortars Maximum range, km 1.5 - 9 Caliber, mm 120 Weight, kg projectile 27 warhead/explosive 11.2/5.3 Warhead HEF The system comprises: a 120mm guided HEF mortar projectile; a propelling charge; a laser designator/range finder. [crossreferences: used by ] 2s12 Sani 120mm TOWED MORTAR The system is designed to defeat single and group, stationary and moving, armoured and soft-skinned targets and engineer facilities by firing 120mm smoothbore and rifled mortars. Gran kills stationary and moving targets by the first shot without fire adjustment. Targets located at a considerable distance from each other (up to 300 m) are killed at a single fire angle and without changing settings in the projectile. Simultaneous fire by several mortars at several targets (without hampering each other's operation), a capability of firing with incomplete meteorological data, defeat of targets moving in defiles, located behind high crests or on reserve slopes of the terrain, and high-accuracy fire at night significantly enhance mortar effectiveness, especially in irregular terrain where the application of guns is complicated. Gran is a mobile system as it has a portable automated fire control system, which can be carried by a crew of two men. The fire control system is designed to detect and illuminate targets (including at night and in rough terrain) and provide for topographic control and orientation of the fire position and the command and observation post, as well as automated computation of fire mission settings. The analysis of Gran's combat efficiency shows that, featuring high capabilities and modest demand for resources and ammunition, it can ensure a high target kill level in conditions where conventional mortars and guns are actually ineffective. KITOLOV-2M and KITOLOV-2 Max. firing range, km 12 9 Hit probability 0.8 ... 0.9 0.8 ... 0.9 Projectile calibre, mm 122 120 Projectile weight, kg 27 25 Projectile length, mm 1,225 1,225 Warhead type HE-Frag HE-Frag Warhead/explosive weight, kg 12/5.5 10/5 Illumination range for tank - type target, km 7 7 Artillery systems capable to fire: KITOLOV-2M projectile: 122 mm D-30A Howitzer 122 mm 2S1 Self-propelled Howitzer KITOLOV-2 projectile: 120 mm "Vena", "Nona-SVK", "Nona-K" "Nona-M" Artillery Systems The 122mm KITOLOV-2M and 120 mm KITOLOV-2 guided artillery systems effectively destroy moving and fixed armoured targets and fortifications by first shot without fire adjustment. They provide 10 to 15- fold reduction of ammunition expenditure and 5 to 10- fold reduction of time required to fulfil the combat mission. The KITOLOV-2M/KITOLOV-2 guided projectiles can be used by conventional artillery units ensuring destruction of dispersed targets (up to 800 m from each other) without readjustment of fire settings . No checks are required for deployed system. Fire preparation and firing are identical with standard procedures set for conventional projectiles.