TDW demos scalable effects for UK MoD

A new technology designed to allow military forces to select the explosive output of ammunition in the field has been demonstrated for the UK Ministry of Defence by TDW and BAE Systems Munitions.

The ability to select explosive output in theatre is commonly known as ‘scalable effects’ or ‘dial-a-yield’. 

Currently, military forces are limited to weapon systems with fixed explosive charges, so cannot reduce effects for targets in urban areas.

TDW is working to change this with an enhanced version of its Range Adaptable Device Incorporating Unique Scaling (RADIUS) system. The system will allow military forces to control the effects of any blast/fragmentation or penetrator warhead between ten percent and 100 percent, enabling forces to focus on the chosen target and reduce collateral damages. 

The testing, performed at the MoD’s Otterburn Test Range on 21 October, saw the RADIUS technology integrated into two identical Mk-82 500lb general purpose bombs containing the same quantity of explosive. Two separate firings were carried out at the same day – one at minimum output and a second one at maximum - allowing a clear comparison of effects. 

Ulrich Störchle, managing director, TDW, said: ‘RADIUS could soon provide the answer to conventional and asymmetric threats in military missions. With the target-dependent, flexible effects provided by our RADIUS technology, we can address the needs of all armed services – land, sea and air. 

‘We are proud to show the high maturity of the technology and pleased with the level of interest shown by representatives from armed forces, procurement agencies and defence industry.’