Armor Considerations for Ground Platforms
Abstract
Goal: To develop advanced armor technologies that provide ground combat and tactical wheeled vehicles with the capability to provide enhanced protection (multiple threats), weight reduction, and adaptability to threat evolution. Drivers: Lightweight/Mobile; Threat Adaptable/Repairable; Need to Balance Performance, Protection, and Payload. Armor Design: Optimal use of mechanics and materials. Vehicle Armor Damage Concerns: Combat Impacts and Noncombat Impacts. Materials for Ground Platforms: Ideal situation -- materials readily available and fully developed, such as RHA, high hard steel, and aluminum. The Reality: Research projects are ongoing to further develop advanced lightweight armors using Composites, Ceramics, Titanium, Magnesium, and Metal Matrix Materials. Design Drivers: Cost, Weight, and Volume. The Future for Combat Vehicles: Lightweight armor; Structure plus armor (A + B); Relatively damage intolerant; Air transportable (C-130); Advanced ceramic armors and use of polymer composites; Designed for noncontiguous, nonlinear, reorganizing battlefields; Common components for a reduction of logistics footprint; Network centric and highly interdependent. The Future for Tactical Vehicles: Recapitalization with applique armor (A-kit/B-kit); More survivable in mine blast events; Component commonality (hardware, transparent armor, B-kit panels); Gun turret and advanced countermeasures; Crew installable B-kit with minimal tools; Enhanced crew survivability; Increased system reliability; and Ability to take on more of an assault role.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 27, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA530822
Entities
People
- Douglas W. Templeton
Organizations
- United States Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center