INTRODUCTIONS

The Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA) worked hand in hand with the Army and ST Kinetics to build an All Terrain Tracked Carrier (ATTC) to augment the Army’s mechanized force.

DSTA engineers gave valuable inputs in the following areas of expertise:

1.    Programme management

The project management team from DSTA managed the development of the ATTC and ensured that it is delivered to the Army on time and on budget. Activities carried out by the team included specifying technical requirements, reviewing designs and conducting evaluation trials. The DSTA project team was able to achieve synergies in the development of the ATTC, as members contributed significantly in their areas of specialization.

2.    Ergonomics

DSTA harnessed human factors engineering (HFE) to enhance the human effectiveness, comfort and safety of the ATTC. A well-designed man-machine interface considers factors such as leg clearance, body angles and functional arm reach to ensure crew comfort, reduce crew fatigue and get the best possible human performance when using the ATTC. To ensure that SAF servicemen can carry out their duties effectively, studies were carried out to optimize the man-machine interface. 
For example, visual contours were mapped and analyzed based on the seated eye position to study the field of vision for the driver and commander . The results were used to improve the design of the windscreen and side windows. iterative prototyping and innovative mock-ups were used in the design of the driver’s seat and the layout of the instrument displays. structured questionnaires were used to get feedback from SAF servicemen during the design and development phases to ensure that the user-system interface conforms to the required human factor requirements. Even environmental ergonomics was studied. DSTA engineers measured and evaluated the level of hazards like noise, vibration, heat and toxic fumes during field trials. Changes in the design of the ATTC were then introduced to ensure that hazard levels were kept below the safety threshold.

3.    Communications systems integration

DSTA equipped the ATTC with a digital intercom system, the first for an Army vehicle platform. This system is cost-effective and compatible with existing SAF communications equipment. DSTA carried out technical evaluations to ensure that the ATTC communications systems can integrate seamlessly with other sub-systems on the ATTC. DSTA engineers performed electromagnetic analysis to position radio antennas on the ATTC for optimal performance.

4.    Weapon integration

DSTA helped select and integrate weapon systems that meet safety and effectiveness requirements. Firing acceptance tests were planned and conducted. DSTA analyzed the results from these tests and recommended ways to enhance performance and safety of the weapon systems on the ATTC.

5.    Reliability & Maintainability (R&M) assurance

DSTA saves operational and support costs by ensuring that the ATTC can withstand harsh military operating environments and has a high operational availability. Detailed tests were carried out before the finalization of the design to ensure a reliable and maintainable ATTC. Failure analysis was one of the tasks conducted to identify R&M design improvement during developmental trials.

"New All Terrain Vehicle Makes Tracks For Eurosatory"
by Chris Foss Jane's Daily, 20 June 2000

As part of a determined drive to market its expanding range of tracked Armored vehicles, Singapore Technologies Kinetics has brought its new articulated All Terrain Tracked Carrier (ATTC) to Eurosatory.

Singapore Technologies Kinetics only revealed the ATTC in March this year, so far two preproduction vehicles have been built - one in a cargo carrier version and the other, shown at Eurosatory, in the troop carrier configuration. The ATTC comprises two fully Armoured units, front and rear, connected by a hydraulic articulated joint that features steering and damping cylinders. The hull is of all welded steel armour which provides the occupants with protection from 7.62mm small arms fire and shell splinters. A German IBD passive armour package can be fitted to provide a higher level of armor protection if required. When being used as a troop carrier, the ATTC can carry a total of 16 - six in the front, including the driver and vehicle commander, and 10 in the rear unit, plus their equipment. Maximum quoted payload for the front unit is 1,200kg and for the rear unit 3,000kg. It is fully amphibious, being propelled in the water by its rubber tracks at a maximum speed of 5km/h.

For local protection the ATTC can be fitted with a roof-mounted 7.62 or 5.56mm machine gun and banks of electrically operated smoke grenade launchers. Optional equipment includes a passive night vision system and a land navigation system. The endless molded rubber bank tracks were developed specially for the ATTC by Soucy of Canada and are lighter and quieter than conventional steel tracks. Mounted under the rear part of the front compartment is the power pack, which comprises a Caterpillar 3126B four-stroke turbocharged air-cooled diesel developing 350bhp, coupled to an Allison MD 3560P fully automatic transmission.

Today, the Singapore Armed Forces use the Swedish Hagglunds Vehicle unarmored Bv 206 for a wide range of battlefield support roles. It is possible that in the future the new ATTC will gradually undertake some of these roles as it is not only Armored, but has a significant increase in load-carrying capability, which enables it to undertake a much wider range of battlefield roles than the older Bv 206.

In addition to being used as a cargo carrier, other roles suggested for the ATTC by Singapore Technologies Kinetics include use as an ambulance, weapons carrier, reconnaissance platform command and control vehicle, internal security and a number of specialized civilian roles.

WASHINGTON --- Singapore Technologies Kinetics (ST Kinetics) has been awarded a study contract in July 2004 by the Finnish Defence Forces Materiel Command (DFMC) to explore the development of a Future All Terrain Vehicle (FATV) for the Finnish Defence Force (FDF).

In the contract, ST Kinetics will evaluate new technologies for the FATV, which is intended to replace the FDF’s current fleet of articulated vehicles by 2010-2012. The study is expected to conclude by March 2005.

The study contract is an endorsement of ST Kinetics’ extensive experience and technical competency in the development of both tracked and wheeled solutions. Its experience with the Bronco All Terrain Tracked Carrier in particular, has been extremely successful. In fact, the Bronco has successfully completed exhaustive FDF trials for 6 months in 2003, covering over 8,000 km of harsh Finnish arctic terrain and weather.

Today, the Bronco has been extensively tested through rigorous sand and winterisation trials, and has passed the standards set by the US MIL-STD-810E. It has thrived in hot chamber tests, mobility tests on sand dunes and alpine snowfields at maximum load. Mobility trials were also done in elsewhere in Europe, Africa and Asia-Pacific where it is being actively marketed.

The FATV programme demands a completely new platform - one with challenges for increased payloads, ability to move continuously at higher speeds and over longer distances, higher protection levels and with all terrain capability. ST Kinetics will draw on its lessons and experience with the Bronco, whose operational status with the Singapore Armed Forces coupled with the number of variants fielded, makes ST Kinetics a credible and highly qualified candidate.

ST Kinetics is approaching the Finnish concept study with the readiness to embark on innovative and in-depth component or subsystem-level proofs of concept which will be required in the course of the development. One example is the Active Articulated Vehicle (AAV) concept, which allows articulated platforms to couple and decouple quickly to form two separate and smaller driven vehicles, each operating independently from the other. The concept offers a “plug and play” convenience, allowing the swapping of abilities even while the vehicle is in operation. The AAV features prominently as part of ST Kinetics’ proposal, and offers a technology that is ready and working, and can be easily integrated or adapted for requirements in the near future.


Finnish inputs

Apart from a revolutionary design approach to meet user requirements, ST Kinetics has set up partnerships with reputable and established Finnish companies to explore the inclusion of Finnish components and more importantly, to leverage their experience with the local terrain and operational requirements.

ST Kinetics is the land systems arm of Singapore Technologies Engineering (ST Engineering). It provides design and engineering services for both commercial and military vehicles and related products, ranging from manufacturing, upgrading, repair and maintenance to complete life cycle management. It also provides component and subsystem design and development, and laboratory and industrial test services.

Bronco seeks first export orders
Christopher F Foss

The Singapore Technologies Kinetics (STK) Bronco All Terrain Tracked Carrier (ATTC) has been fully operational with the Singapore Armed Forces for several years. So far more than 600 have been ordered with production still underway. Bronco has already undertaken extensive trials in Finland and more recently in France as both countries have a requirement for a vehicle of this type. Also competing for both of these requirements is the BAE Systems Hägglunds BvS 10, which is in service with the Netherlands and UK Royal Marines and has also undergone extensive trials in France, including the Alps.

The French Army programme is called the Véhicule Haute Mobilité (VHM) with a total requirement, funding permitting, of up to 400 units. Both contractors have submitted their bids to France. A decision is expected early next year, with first order expected to be for about 50 to 60 units.
For the French market STK (Stand H10) would send the vehicles to French company CEFA, which would fit specialised mission equipment. The vehicles would then go to Thales, which would fit the electronic equipment.

At Eurosatory, a Bronco is being shown in French Army markings and fitted out as an Artillery Forward Observation Officer (FOO) vehicle. Mounted over the front unit is a remote controlled overhead weapon station supplied by Thales and armed with a 12.7mm machine gun.
Singapore has already deployed a number of versions of the Bronco, including ambulance, repair and recovery, load carrier, troop carrier and fuel resupply vehicle. Other versions are under development, including one carrying the STK 120mm SRAMS (Super Rapid Advanced Mortar System). Bronco is already being expanded, including use as a robotic vehicle, as well as being fitted with a new advanced patented coupling that links the front and rear units. This unique feature allows the user to “plug and play “ so that different units can be attached as required by the mission. In addition, each unit can be transported slung under a tactical helicopter and then rapidly linked at their final destination.

The units provide the crews with protection from small arms fire and shell splinters, with higher levels of protection being an option. The Caterpillar diesel engine meets EURO III requirements, with the total available payload currently being 5,000kg.

The Bronco is also fully amphibious, being propelled in the water by its tracks at a speed of 5km/h.

UK Ministry of Defense - dated 18th December 2008
source : MoD-UK

A beast of a vehicle will be unleashed on operations when MOD converts more than 100 Broncos, from Singapore Technologies Kinetics, into Warthog armored vehicles for the Armed Forces in Afghanistan. Bronco will arrive in the UK in 2009 to undergo transformation to become the armoured, all-terrain vehicle Warthog replacing the Viking in Afghanistan. Warthog will be powered by a 7.2 liter engine producing 350 bhp and will be able to move through water - all while carrying up to 14 troops. When not in the water, the highly agile, all-terrain vehicle will be able to climb steep gradients, cling to severe side slopes, tackle vertical obstacles and roll across trenches. Minister for Defense, Equipment and Support, Quentin Davies, said: "Warthog will be true to its name as a beast of a vehicle that can manoeuvre across difficult terrain, power-up steep gradients and even cling to slopes. Warthog will provide improved protection to our troops in Afghanistan's green zone, where water and a fragile infrastructure make it difficult for other vehicles to operate. It will be able to move through deep water while carrying troops at the heart of our operations."

A protected gun mount, extra armour, specialist electronic counter-measure equipment and communications tools will be added before Warthog is deployed on operations.  Warthog will come in four variants - a troop carrier, an ambulance, a command vehicle and a repair and recovery vehicle. The ambulance variant will be capable of carrying casualties, medics and kit. Warthog's repair and recovery variant will be fitted with a crane and winch, and will have the capability of towing another 18-tonne Warthog vehicle back from the front line.

President of Singapore Technologies Kinetics, Mr Chee Jhuen Sew, said:  "We have been delighted by the close and constructive relationship established between the UK MOD and ST Kinetics. UOR contracts demand speed, openness and trust; that all these have been realised across culture and distance testifies to the professionalism existing within the UK MOD today."

More than 100 Bronco vehicles have been bought from Singapore Technologies Kinetics (STK) in a deal that is worth over £150M.

ST Engineering's land Systems Arm Awarded GBP150m contract by UK MoD for Bronco ATTC
source : ST Engineering - dated 18th December 2008

SINGAPORE --- Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering) today announced that its land systems arm, Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd., has been awarded a contract of about £150m (about S$330m) by the UK Ministry of Defence for the supply of Bronco All Terrain Tracked Carriers.  Designated as "WARTHOG" by the UK MOD, the vehicles are being procured in response to an Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR). The vehicle deliveries will commence in third quarter 2009, with the majority to be delivered in 2010. 
This contract is not expected to have any material impact on the consolidated net tangible assets per share and earnings per share of ST Engineering for the current financial year.
The WARTHOG is a development of ST Kinetics' Bronco ATTC, a robust, reliable and proven articulated platform with many hundreds in service. The Bronco's articulated design delivers exceptional mobility across a wide range of terrain and climate, and is extensively armoured and highly survivable. Critically, it will give the UK MOD a significant increase in protection against roadside bombs. Bronco will also deliver considerable increases in range, payload and internal capacity over incumbent vehicles currently being used in Afghanistan.

Four WARTHOG variants will be built under the contract - Troop Carrier, Ambulance, Command, and Repair & Recovery.
"We appreciate the close, flexible and constructive working relationship with ST Kinetics. They are a great company to work with and the Bronco has exceeded our expectations in terms of quality, capability and performance. We are delighted with their product, attitude and the progress jointly made in a very short time indeed," says Simon Cox, Programme Manager, UK MOD.
"ST Kinetics is proud that its Bronco ATTC has been selected to serve the UK MOD. With the Bronco, we are now able to provide the UK MOD with a significant increase in combat capability - range, payload, internal capacity and survivability," says SEW Chee Jhuen, President, ST Kinetics.

ST Kinetics is the land systems and specialty vehicles arm of ST Engineering. It delivers integrated land systems, specialty vehicles and their related through life support for defence, homeland security and commercial applications. ST Engineering is an integrated engineering group providing solutions and services in the aerospace, electronics, land systems and marine sectors. Headquartered in Singapore, the Group reported revenue of $5.05b in FY2007 and ranks among the largest companies listed on the Singapore Exchange. ST Engineering has more than 19,000 employees worldwide, and over 100 subsidiaries and associated companies in 24 countries and 42 cities.

DefenseNews : dated 18th December 2008 by Andrew Chuter

Singapore Technologies Kinetics has secured a 150 million pound (about $233 million) deal with Britain to supply Bronco armored all-terrain vehicles to troops deployed in Afghanistan.
The contract was officially announced here by the Ministry of Defense Dec 18. The urgent operational requirement will see just over 100 vehicles delivered starting the third quarter of next year with the bulk of the Broncos delivered in 2010. Although it is effectively an off-the-shelf purchase the tracked, articulated vehicle being built for the British will include a number of modifications.
These include a hull redesign to significantly increase protection against mines and roadside bombs, longer range fuel tanks, weapon modifications, the inclusion of electronic counter measures equipment and other changes. The first British-bound vehicle is due off the production line in Spring 2009 for testing prior to handing over to the customer. Thales UK will be STK's local partner responsible for final integration work and the provision of logistic support for Bronco.
The vehicles, to be delivered in troop carrier, ambulance, command and repair and recovery variants, will replace BAE Systems Vikings currently deployed by British forces in Afghanistan. The Vikings will be returned to the UK for continuing service with the Royal Marines. Bronco, to be known as the Warthog in British service, will be used by the marines and the army in Afghanistan. The Singaporean developed vehicle beat out an improved version of the Viking developed by BAE Hagglunds, the Swedish armored vehicle arm of Europe's biggest defense contractor.

In a statement released here STK said Bronco will "Give the UK MoD a significant increase in protection against roadside bombs and also deliver considerable increases in range, payload and internal capacity over incumbent [Viking] vehicles currently being used in Afghanistan. It's the second British defense contract win by Singapore in little more than a year. In 2007 the Ministry of Defence acquired 40mm grenades from STK in a deal valued at Singapore $42.5 million. UK MoD program manager Simon Cox said the Bronco had "exceeded our expectations in terms of quality, capability and performance. We are delighted with the product, attitude [of the company] and the progress jointly made in a very short time."

This is the first export of the Bronco although several hundred of the vehicles have been in service with the Singapore military since the start of the decade.

ST Engineering makes its mark -dated 29th December 2008
by Jermyn Chow -The Straits Times

SINGAPORE'S leading defense manufacturer sold $1.4 billion worth of weapons to foreign countries this year, a record showing in a year when other sectors have been slowing down. The highlight of the year was Singapore Technologies Engineering's $330 million contract with the British armed forces for the Singapore-built Bronco - the largest defense industry deal with a Western nation.

ST Engineering's four arms - ST Kinetics, ST Aerospace, ST Electronics and ST Marine - now export everything from assault rifles to navy vessels around the world. Its executive vice-president for international marketing, Mr. Patrick Choy, said 2008 has been a breakthrough year. The sale of more than 100 Broncos, combined with a second contract to supply 40mm ammunition, also for the United Kingdom, means the company is now selling about five times more products overseas than when it began in 2000.

'To be able to sell our capabilities to a renowned first-world military (organization) is a new milestone, certainly one for the record books,' said Mr. Choy. The Singapore-based company has come a long way since it began some 40 years ago to produce equipment for the Singapore Armed Forces, which remains its key client.  ST Engineering is one of the world's top producers for 40mm ammunition and small arms such as its CIS40 Automatic Grenade Launcher and Ultimax 100 machine gun.  Other hot sellers include the SAR 21 rifle and naval platforms like landing craft.

Most of them, according to Mr. Choy, have been battle-tested in Afghanistan and Iraq. The recent Bronco deal has been in the works for almost a year and is all the sweeter since the company had earlier failed to sell the armored vehicles to Finland and France. The deal comes more than eight years after it first tried to supply another armored fighting vehicle, the Bionix, to the United States army.

Unless otherwise stated. All information are extracted from product brochure of STK - Dec1999
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