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2012-02-13 Science & Technology

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Posted by GolfBravoUSMC 2012-02-13 11:26|| || Front Page|| [11136 views ] Top

#1 "Long range" is relative. Spike is an ATGM, of which there are several versions.

According to its specs, its max range is "800 to 25,000m".

Picture of the Spike NLOS.

Spike NLOS - "Non Line Of Sight" is an ultra long range version of the weapon with a claimed maximum range of up to 25 km (16 mi). As a newer, larger missile with an overall weight of around 70 kg (154 lb 5 oz), it can be fired from helicopters.

The Spike NLOS is already operational with a military customer, which is most likely to be Israel Defense Forces. In a deal concluded on 6 September 2011, the South Korean government has agreed to purchase an unknown number of Spike NLOS missiles.

Posted by Anonymoose 2012-02-13 14:53|| 2012-02-13 14:53|| Front Page Top

#2 This being said, I think what may be needed is an escort "mothership" that can carry a few dozen of these drone boats, which can be quick launched on request, then recovered. Think of a modified fast cargo ship.

I can also imagine another configuration, designed as anti-submarine boats. With different weaponry, of course. Like a 750lb Mark 54 MAKO Lightweight Torpedo.

Posted by Anonymoose 2012-02-13 15:00|| 2012-02-13 15:00|| Front Page Top

#3 Same robot boat can drop and retrieve robot subs.

Posted by Water Modem 2012-02-13 15:31|| 2012-02-13 15:31|| Front Page Top

#4 This being said, I think what may be needed is an escort "mothership" that can carry a few dozen of these drone boats

This is a follow-on/modification to an anti-submarine package designed for the Littoral Combat ship.

Posted by Pappy 2012-02-13 15:55|| 2012-02-13 15:55|| Front Page Top

#5 As per the #2, the US Navy's new MPS Ships are roughly the right "fit" for a "Mothership" - the ENTERPRISE, NIMITZES, + new FORD-Class CVNS may be too oversized + powerful for Navy-DOD requirements, espec given that the US is formally not antipating the breakout of any major mil conflicts [World Wars, Multi-National]at least thru Year 2050 iff not beyond. IOW, UN-APPROVED MINOR "POLICE ACTION(S)" + "PEACEKEEPING".

US Navy-DOD PLanners may not like the concept of "ARSENAL/FIRE SHIPS", but wid the new MPS design it appears they are moving in that direction anyway.

* 1990's RUSH LIMBAUGH [paraph] > "ITS A TERRIBLE BURDEN TO BE RIGHT = RIGHTIST ALL THE TIME"!

Posted by JosephMendiola 2012-02-13 19:48|| 2012-02-13 19:48|| Front Page Top

#6 Joe, its always the wars you don't anticipate breaking out that get you, at least that's been my experience.

Posted by OldSpook 2012-02-13 21:25|| 2012-02-13 21:25|| Front Page Top

#7 Thankfully, the Israeli's "Own" the Unmanned universe.

Posted by Chesh Squank6666 2012-02-13 22:49|| 2012-02-13 22:49|| Front Page Top

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