Why Middle Eastern markets demand bespoke AFV solutions
In this expert analysis, Christopher Foss looks at how armoured vehicle suppliers to the Middle East are increasingly tailoring platforms for the region’s specific operational requirements.
Logos Technologies to continue motorcycle development
Logos Technologies has received funding to continue development of the SilentHawk military motorcycle under a DARPA Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award announced on 6 January.
Logos Technologies will continue to work on the motorcycle in partnership with Alta Motors, to develop a prototype that combines Alta’s existing RedShift MX electric motocross bike with Logos Technologies’ proven quiet, multi-fuelled hybrid-electric power system.
When fully matured, SilentHawk would allow small, distributed military teams to move long distances quickly and stealthily across harsh enemy terrain, meeting DARPA’s expectations for high performance, efficiency and military utility.
During Phase I of the programme, Logos and Alta conducted performance testing on the RedShift MX in multiple terrains and riding conditions to help understand the requirements for an off-road military motorcycle. Using this data, Logos demonstrated the suitability of its hybrid-electric system to meeting actual off-road power requirements.
The result of Phase I was a preliminary design, backed by testing and modelling, which Logos intends to turn into a prototype during Phase II. The current timeline aims to see an operational prototype developed and tested within 18 months.
Wade Pulliam, manager of advanced concepts, Logos Technologies, said: ‘Quiet, all-wheel drive capability at extended range in a lightweight, rugged, single-track vehicle would support the successful operations in extreme terrain conditions and contested environments. This award enables us to continue to execute a fast-paced development effort that takes advantage of our team’s prior work, superior technical approach, and extensive experience.
'An innovative design approach, including a unique field-swappable power system concept, will allow unprecedented customisability of the bike while still meeting and exceeding the government’s challenging requirements. We also believe that the system resulting from this second phase of the programme would have applicability to other ground vehicle systems beyond motorcycles.’
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