2008 Annual Research and Technology Report

2008 Annual Research and Technology Report Defence Research for the German Armed Forces on Operations

08

2008 Annual Research and Technology Report Defence Research for the German Armed Forces on Operations

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Foreword

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Ministerialdirigent Dipl.-Ing. Erwin Bernhard Unterabteilungsleiter Rü IV und Forschungsbeauftragter Bundesministerium der Verteidigung [email protected]

Defence Research for the German Armed Forces on Operations

The factor of technology has been central to

These new security challenges pay no heed to the

The parties interested in settling conflicts are more

want to be capable of meeting the international

warfare for many centuries – in particular when

borders of nation-states with respect to either

likely to have highly advanced land-, air-, sea- and

obligations Germany has assumed, of participating

an outnumbered adversary was able to make up

their origins or their possible impacts. The classic

space-based standoff weapon systems that are

in stability operations and of conducting rescue and

for this disadvantage or even turn it into an

distinction between external and internal security

employed by forces such as highly specialised task

evacuation operations as a national responsibility.

advantage by procuring better equipment. In the

is therefore being increasingly replaced by a

groups in order to deprive the actors in interstate

So the mission of the Bundeswehr extends from

vast majority of cases, technological developments

comprehensive concept of security, as the two

wars and the new violent actors in “small wars”

waging war to conducting peace stability and

evolved slowly and steadily, and the associated

areas are linked and interdependent and ultimately

of the capability to wage war.

disaster relief operations. The range will be covered

introduction of new equipment took place at an

merge in a “globalisation of security aspects“. This

appropriate later date. Today, the development

marks out the strategic framework for security and

Access to new technologies is becoming increasingly

capabilities. Not all the forces have to be able to do

of technology is progressing at a distinctly faster

defence research and technology.

easy in our globalised world with its networking

everything. This is the reason why three categories

and interdependencies, especially against the back-

of forces, Response Forces, Stabilization Forces and

pace and revolutionary leaps in development are

by forces that differ in terms of readiness and

more and more frequent. Moreover, the range

Looking at the overall strategic situation, it appears

ground of the increase in the rate of innovation in

Support Forces have been created and now have

of operational scenarios for armed forces has

that our armed forces are rather unlikely to be

science and technology. This applies in particular

to be fitted out with dedicated equipment designed

widened and now goes from high-intensity

deployed in national or alliance defence operations

to the new violent actors. What this means for our

to enable them to accomplish their respective tasks.

conflicts to regional low-intensity conflicts,

within NATO territory in the short and medium terms.

armed forces is that their defence materiel must

counter-terrorism as well as stability and nation-

Bundeswehr forces are mostly deployed in conflict

be modernized and adapted to match new and

Operational readiness is the product of personnel,

building operations in an entirely transformed

prevention and crisis management operations as

different tasks and risks at increasingly shorter

equipment and training. These components are

worldwide security environment. In addition, the

part of international coalitions. New concepts such

intervals in order to be superior to the new actors

connected with each other by concepts, methods

number of points of common interest in internal

as Military Operations Other Than War have been

and so be capable of achieving their objectives.

and the organizational structure. They make up the

and external security has increased substantially

drafted. The operational environment in which our

in just the last decade.

armed forces are deployed has therefore changed

Due to the changes in the security environment

cess. In the field of activity of materiel/equipment,

fundamentally.

mentioned and to the reality of operations, a

research and technology is a key element for

National Level of Ambition has been formulated for

guaranteeing the operational readiness of the armed forces.

The ongoing process of globalisation does not

six fields of activity within the transformation pro-

stop at threats to state security either. Threats to

The future operational scenarios are key for

what the Bundeswehr needs to be able to do in the

a state can today arise in far-away places. This

targeted research and technology activities. Wars

future. The political will expressed in the National

new range of threats to the inclusive societies of

and operations will no longer be waged by mass

Level of Ambition and the approach adopted to

The purpose of research and technology is to

democratic states has led to the development of

armies with the objective of making territorial

achieve this objective are defined in the Bundeswehr

provide the required scientific and technological

a broadened, comprehensive concept of security.

gains.

Concept. The Bundeswehr Concept states that we

know-how and skills in all the relevant fields of

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technology so that the decisions made on the

life. However, scientific and technical leaps in

Summing up, it can be said that the equipment

The 2007 Annual Report on Research & Technology

equipment the armed forces must have are appro-

development are not normally predictable.

soldiers should have has traditionally been at the

used examples to provide an insight into the wide

priate, intelligent and economic and indicate the

Nevertheless, the research, technology and

centre of strategic considerations. State-of-the-art

spectrum of topics within defence research. The

way ahead. The results are meant to secure the

development of today determine the technological

research is the basis for developing up-to-date

2008 Annual Report on Research & Technology

assessment and advisory capabilities needed to make

capabilities, products and systems of tomorrow.

equipment that is tailored to the likely mission.

addresses the significance of defence research

decisions on equipment, enhance the preventive

These evolutionary development trends can be

Research intensity is currently steadily increasing

for the Bundeswehr forces on operations. For

security measures of all the ministries, enable new

clearly described. The current overall trend in

– not only in the field of technology – due to

this purpose, it contains information on current

technologies to be identified for establishing the

science and technology can be described by an

ever-new technological possibilities. It has caused

research projects from the fields of defence and

capabilities the Bundeswehr needs and new solutions

increase in research intensity – not only in the tech-

the development dynamics in the high-tech sector

geo-scientific research, military medical research,

for developing them to be offered, and to promote

nology sector – on the basis of steadily increasing

to spread from the military to the civil R&T land-

military history and socio-scientific research that

emerging technologies in due time until production

technical possibilities. At the same time, there is

scape. The changed strategic security environment

are of immediate operational relevance.

is close to starting. That means that research and

an increase in efficiency and diversification in all

in which our country finds itself is rightly causing

technology is the core element at the beginning

areas of research. Due to the extremely dynamic

civil security research and military defence research

of a value added chain at the end of which the

development in the field of research and tech-

to integrate more closely. This process is being

Bundeswehr forces on operations have the best

nology, the dominance of civil R&T over military

accompanied by an increase in the internationali-

equipment possible for doing their jobs. So it is

programmes is tending to rise. Military technology

zation of defence and security research. The

essential for account to be taken of the latest

is benefiting from civil technology in many fields.

continued extremely high dynamics of research

technological developments when the Bundeswehr’s

However, from the technological point of view,

and technology is piling on the pressure for changes

materiel and equipment plans are adjusted to meet

Customizing and Add-on are becoming more and

to be made in all – civil and military – fields of

future requirements.

more demanding, costly and research-intensive.

application. Anything not serving the improvement

This means that when objectives are adjusted to

of operational readiness must thus be regarded

The world is currently in the midst of a global

match new technological developments, more

as secondary. Against the background of the

technological revolution. For three decades, progress

flexibility as well as a sustained stable, in-depth

increasingly complex demands on personnel and

has been made at an increasing pace in the sectors

and ad hoc ability to judge how technology can

materiel on operations, this also means that there

of biotechnology, nanotechnology, information

be turned into operational capabilities are required

are a growing number of points of common interest

technology and materials engineering in particular.

– in both civil security research and military defence

and interdependences in the various subject areas

The coming decades will have the potential for

research.

of military science.

making radical changes in all the dimensions of

Erwin Bernhard

Contents

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08 Foreword

6

Defence Research for the

38

See It with Neutrons

German Armed Forces on Operations

40

Gated Viewing with Super-resolution Depth Mapping

42

Integrated Protection against C-Weapons based on Detection and Decontamination using Novel Molecule Structures .

Part 1

15

Defence Research

16

Microwave Radiometry in Security Applications

18

High-resolution Microwave Radar Signature Acquisition

20

Laser Test Range

22

Supporting the Operator in the Classification of Surface Ships using Electro-optical Data

24

Prediction of Infrared Visibility for the UH TIGER

26

Automatic Image Analysis for Ship-based Panoramic Surveillance

44

Manned-unmanned Teaming – UAV as Remote Sensor Platforms for Helicopters

46

3D Worlds for the Bundeswehr

48

Underwater Sensor Platform for Rapid Assessment of Hydrodynamic Signatures and Turbulent Processes in Oceans

50

Immunology-based Microchip Array Immunodetector for the Rapid Detection of Toxins in the Field

52

Vector-protective Finish for Clothing – Helping to Protect Service Personnel from Infectious Diseases during Deployments Abroad

54

and Target Recognition

Off-grid Power for Defence Applications – Portable and Mobile Fuel Cell Systems in the Low-to-medium Power Range

28

Modelling of Woven Fabrics

56

Mobile Lightweight Bridges

30

Analysis of the Fragmentation of Ballistic Ceramics using

58

Development of Passive Protection Measures for the Storage of

the Laser Lightsheet Illumination Technique

Military Ammunition during Missions

32

Novel Radar-supported Landing Aid System for Helicopters

60

Long-term Experimental Setup for Asymmetric Warfare (LEXXWAR)

34

Fast-Deployable Barriers as Non-Lethal Weapons

62

Digital Map and Situation Table: Future Workbench for Analysis and

36

Interoperable Sharing of Reconnaissance Information with the Coalition Shared Database (CSD)

Sensor Management in Imaging Reconnaissance 64

Validation of Explosive Fume Dynamics in Rooms

Contents

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08 Part 2

67

Military Medical Research

68

Demonstration of the Effectiveness of a Hearing Protection Device against

Part 3

85

Military History and Social Science Research

86

Orientational Knowledge for Operations Abroad: The ”Wegweiser zur Geschichte”

Impulse Noise caused by Hand Weapons 70

(Guide to History) Series of the Military History Research Institute

Development, Validation and Clinical Evaluation of Multiplex Assays for the

88

Socio-scientific Monitoring of Missions Abroad – The Bundeswehr Mission in Afghanistan

91

Appendix

Detection Method for Sulphur Mustard

92

Adresses and Contacts

76

RTQ-PCR-based Biodosimetry of Lymphocyte Subsets

96

Editorial Details

78

Development of an Experimental Design for Anti-G Suits in a Human Centrifuge

80

Diving Ergospirometry – Development of a Device for Exercise Physiology under

Rapid Diagnosis of Rare Infectious Diseases 72

Molecular Typing of the Causative Agent of Anthrax: A Contribution to Forensic Microbiology

74

Development and Validation of an On-site Immunochromatographic Rapid

Near-realistic Diving Conditions 82

Part 4

Cooling the Human Body when wearing Protective Clothing: A New Approach using a ”Physiological” Mechanism

Defence Research

1

Research Activities 2008

16 Dr. Markus Peichl Deutsches Zentrum für Luftund Raumfahrt, Institut für Hochfrequenztechnik und Radarsysteme, Oberpfaffenhofen

Prof. Dr. Helmut Süß Deutsches Zentrum für Luftund Raumfahrt, Institut für Hochfrequenztechnik und Radarsysteme, Oberpfaffenhofen

[email protected]

[email protected]

Microwave Radiometry in Security Applications

17 Passive microwave remote sensing permits daytime-

Electronic scanners

independent, non-destructive observation and examination

Fully electronic scanning is being researched for the

of objects of interest under nearly any weather conditions

purpose of high-speed real-time imaging, an area in which

without exposing persons or areas to artificial radiation.

mechanical scanners have major limitations. Being tested

A millimetre-wave (MMW) radiometer is a potential

in this connection are the imaging techniques of aperture

candidate for the construction of high-resolution and

synthesis, frequency scanning, focal plane arrays, and

sufficiently sensitive detectors which are both reliable

digital beam forming. First prototypes such as the VESAS

and convenient to use. The developments of passive sensors

system are currently under development, combining for

at the DLR include fully mechanical and fully electronic

instance aperture synthesis and frequency scanning for

scanning devices, as well as hybrids of both. The main

two-dimensional imaging.

objective is a high imaging performance capability that The security of persons and critical infrastructures is

International terrorism has reached a level where adequate

of increasing importance. Passive microwave remote

countermeasures to protect the population have to be

sensing allows daytime-independent, non-destructive

provided by the authorities. Increased attention is, in similar

Mechanical scanners

observation and examination of objects of interest

measure, being given to the improved surveillance and

The ABOSCA, a ground-based imager, has been developed

without any exposure to artificial radiation, under

protection of critical infrastructures. Germany’s armed

with the capability to image a full hemisphere, and offers

nearly any weather conditions. The penetration

forces, in particular, are becoming involved more and more

high flexibility where modifications are concerned. A

capability of microwaves makes it possible to detect

in international peacekeeping operations. The protection

rotating parabolic mirror provides an image line, and the

concealed objects. A great variety of imaging and

of servicemen and women, vehicles and camps is hence of

simultaneous azimuth movement of the unit as a whole

profiling systems have been developed at the German

potential interest. The checking of individuals with respect

delivers the second image dimension. It is therefore

Aerospace Center (DLR) for a multitude of applications,

to weapons and explosives and the surveillance of large

possible to monitor very large scenarios, as required during

using nearly the whole spectrum between 1 GHz and

areas around camps or along patrol routes are becoming

the reconnaissance and surveillance of critical infra-

150 GHz.

an indispensable means of countering terrorist attacks.

structures. Another system, the LPAS, offers the possibility

At the present time, no suitable remote sensing devices

to record images of persons at close distances of a few

exist which allow round-the-clock and almost weather-

metres, yielding a spatial resolution of a few centimetres,

independent operation.

for the purpose of detecting concealed objects. It includes

incurs little cost and effort.

a fixed Cassegrain antenna optimised for near-field use Microwaves are able to penetrate clothing as well as a

to receive the radiation via a rotating metallic deflection

multitude of other materials, allowing the detection of

plate. The vertical linear movement of the unit as a whole

concealed objects through dielectric anomaly identification.

delivers the second image dimension.

90 GHz

Fig. 1: Photographs of the ABOSCA system used for the experimental imaging of large scenarios (left), and the LPAS system tested for detecting concealed objects under persons’ clothing (right)

Fig. 2: Radiometric image from the ABOSCA system at 90 GHz (top) and photograph (bottom) of a complex scenario

37 GHz

Fig. 3: Radiometric ABOSCA image taken at 37 GHz and photograph of an optically opaque radome, inside which is a person with outstretched arms

90 GHz

90 GHz

Fig. 4: Images of persons with concealed handguns (indicated in red) in a bag (left-hand images) and under clothing (right-hand images). The left-hand image was recorded outdoors and the right-hand image inside a closed room

Research Activities 2008

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Dipl.-Ing. Timo Kempf Deutsches Zentrum für Luftund Raumfahrt, Institut für Hochfrequenztechnik und Radarsysteme, Oberpfaffenhofen

Prof. Dr. Helmut Süß Deutsches Zentrum für Luftund Raumfahrt, Institut für Hochfrequenztechnik und Radarsysteme, Oberpfaffenhofen

Visual object recognition is generally difficult despite the

turntable) position. The initial results of such experiments

high resolution. A tool for automatic target recognition

are visible in Fig. 4. Three views of the generated 3D

suited to the special radar phenomena is thus needed. An

image – a front view, a side view and a top view - are

[email protected]

[email protected]

artificial object can, where radar wavelengths and mono-

presented.

static illumination are concerned, be represented physically

High-resolution Microwave Radar Signature Acquisition

by dominant backscattering structures comprising ideal

Three-dimensional images allow a change in perspective

or almost ideal corner elements. A detailed radar image

regarding the scanned object, thus greatly facilitating

is then dominated by the high intensities of several object

visual image interpretation. Individual scattering centres

elements, while the weak, noisy scattering signals from

can be related unequivocally to specific parts of the test

the object surface are negligible.

object. As the perspective in Fig. 5 illustrates, 3D radar imaging permits direct comparison with an optical

Reliable global reconnaissance by means of remote

Inverse SAR (ISAR) makes it possible to collect very

For these reasons the extraction of persistent scattering

sensing techniques requires the weather- and time-

precise high-resolution radar signatures from objects. The

centres in highly resolved radar images appears to be a

independent capability to detect, recognise and identify

imaging geometry for a spaceborne radar system is similar

suitable approach for identifying military vehicles. This

objects of interest. A spaceborne, high-resolution

and differs only through geometrical transformation and

technique is relatively robust with respect to moderate

synthetic aperture radar (SAR) system operating in

rotation, as shown in Fig. 1. When using the ISAR tech-

modifications made to the target, such as turret orientation,

spotlight mode is an appropriate instrument for this

nique, a high spatial resolution is achieved in the decimetre

hatch position or add-on equipment, and retains a high

purpose. When designing such missions, the availability

range by rotating an object on a turntable in relation to a

sensitivity vis-à-vis the aspect angle.

of representative radar data from ground measurements

spatially fixed broadband radar system, and by recording a

is important. It serves, for example, to analyse, under-

sequence of relevant radar range echoes within a specific

Even with current technology, the effort involved in

stand and simulate complex target signatures and to

azimuth angle area.

building up a data base, both by measurement and by simulation, is still tremendous. By identifying the scattering

provide reference signatures for simulation or for automatic target recognition. The Department for

The utilised tower-type turntable facility, as shown in

centres it is possible to determine the parts of a target that

Reconnaissance and Security at the Microwaves and

Fig. 2, permits measurements at a distance of 60 m in line

are worthy of greater simulation effort. Other parts of the

Radar Institute of the German Aerospace Center (DLR)

of sight. Typical incidence angles range from 24° to 50°,

target can then be neglected and the overall amount of

has conducted inverse SAR measurements on a tower-

equivalent to the incidence angles for a spaceborne radar.

effort confined. A three-dimensional radar signature is

turntable facility to acquire two- and three-dimensional

The tiltable turntable is usually covered with soil and grass

needed to be able to conduct the identification. On the

signatures.

to provide a natural background. Fig. 3 shows resulting

tower-type turntable the 3D radar datasets are generated

radar images of a military vehicle for four azimuth

by spanning a synthetic aperture both in azimuth (by

positions.

rotation of the turntable) and elevation (by tilting of the

Fig. 2: Tower-type turntable

Fig. 3: Radar images of a vehicle for different azimuth positions

Spotlight SAR

image.

Inverse SAR

Fig. 1: Geometry of spotlight SAR and inverse SAR

Fig. 4: Front, side and top view of a 3D radar image

Fig. 5: Video image and corresponding perspective of the 3D radar image

Research Activities 2008

20 Dr. Jürgen Handke Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, Institut für Technische Physik, Stuttgart [email protected]

21 offers a high deterrent potential. Once successfully developed

caused by transmission through the turbulent atmosphere.

and tested, laser weapons will increasingly replace conven-

Both methods can be tested and evaluated with regard to

tional weapon systems in a selected range of applications.

their capabilities only under the realistic conditions offered by a laser transmission test range.

The laser transmission test range is designed to collect

Laser Test Range

measurement data concerning the propagation characteristics

Another field that is equally important in terms of defence

of laser radiation through the atmosphere as well as

technology and security research is the detection of harmful

regarding the interaction with a wide variety of materials

and hazardous chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear

and target structures under greatly varying weather and

and explosive substances over great distances. Laser-based

environmental conditions for an assortment of laser

remote diagnostics methods for the stand-off detection of

sources. It provides the possibility to continue and advance,

hazardous chemical, biological and explosive substances

A laser transmission test range that allows research into

The rapid progress taking place in the field of laser

under realistic ambient conditions, the fundamental work

are under development at the ITP, and the laser transmission

optical propagation and laser impact at large distances

technology gives rise to the expectation of promising

conducted in the laboratory.

test range constitutes an ideal environment for optimising

has been installed at the Institute of Technical Physics

new technological developments in future for combating

(ITP) of the German Aerospace Center. The outcome of

airborne and ground-based targets and for realising

The results of the research will serve to develop and design

the research will be of fundamental importance for the

anti-satellite capabilities. So-called medium-energy

future laser effectors for extended air defence applications

design of laser sources suitable for extended air defence,

lasers are envisaged mainly for engaging sensors, and

and for counter-RAM (rocket, artillery and mortar) systems

camp protection, high-precision laser tracking and the

high-energy lasers for destroying structures.

for camp protection. At present, the laser transmission test

and, later, qualifying these new measurement techniques.

range is equipped with a high-energy chemical oxygen iodine

remote detection of hazardous substances. Laser weapons enhance the combat potential of armed

laser and is already able to integrate solid-state lasers

forces mainly because of their high agility and rate of fire

(latest generation of high-power lasers), whose development

(saturation attacks). In addition to greater mission

is being pushed ahead at the Institute of Technical Physics

effectiveness, a considerable reduction in operating costs

at Stuttgart.

(ammunition, missiles) can be expected. The focusability of the laser radiation allows a spatially limited and

Further fields of research include so-called “laser tracking”

precision effect on the target, thus promising a significant

and “compensated imaging”. Both are closely connected

reduction of collateral damage. This enables them to

with the propagation of high-power laser radiation and are

be used very effectively and controllably in the fight

indispensable for laser weapon systems. While “laser tra-

against international terrorism.

cking” has to do with tracking and determining a target’s position with high, unprecedented accuracy, “compensated

The instantaneous impact of laser weapons (speed of light)

imaging” denotes the enhanced imaging of a distant target

additionally opens up new mission scenarios and therefore

by compensating for the unavoidable image distortions

Switched off

Switched on

[µrad]

[µrad]

30

30

0

0

-30

-30

-60

-60

-60

Fig. 1: Laser transmission test range

Fig. 2: Rotating aluminium cylinder irradiated with high-energy laser radiation

Fig. 3: Reflector telescope with tracking system implemented for beam direction stabilisation

-30

0

30 [µrad]

-60

-30

0

30 [µrad]

Fig. 4: Stabilisation of the beam propagation direction with implemented tracking system switched off (left) and on (right)

Research Activities 2008

22

23

Dipl.-Inform. Andreas Thun FGAN-Forschungsinstitut für Kommunikation, Informationsverarbeitung und Ergonomie, Wachtberg

Dipl.-Ing. Bjoern Keck Helmut-Schmidt-Universität – Universität der Bundeswehr Hamburg, Fakultät für Elektrotechnik

Dr. Morten Grandt FGAN-Forschungsinstitut für Kommunikation, Informationsverarbeitung und Ergonomie, Wachtberg

Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Udo Zölzer Helmut-Schmidt-Universität – Universität der Bundeswehr Hamburg, Fakultät für Elektrotechnik

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Supporting the Operator in the Classification of Surface Ships using Electro-optical Data

KEOD supports the overall process of surface contact

in the sensor image with reference images of the classes of

classification, identification and data acquisition on the

vessels recognised by KEOD enables the operator to verify

basis of electro-optical data and thus lightens the work

the proposed classification.

burden of operators onboard German Navy vessels. This novel tool is fully operational and replaces the previously

KEOD has been designed in intensive cooperation with

used, mostly paper-based ship registers.

users and empirically assured by testing under actual

Electro-optical sensors are finding increasing use on

The Department of Signal Processing and Communication

sea- and airborne platforms for the reconnaissance of

under Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Udo Zölzer at the Helmut-

surface ships because such passive sensors help to avoid

Schmidt-University (the Bundeswehr University in Hamburg,

The KEOD system is divided into three main components,

UNIFIL Maritime Task Force Operation). It has been

escalation. Using these systems efficiently and easily

or HSU − UniBwHH) has been working on the topic of

namely user interfaces (FGAN-FKIE), classification

demonstrated that KEOD supports operators to evaluate

requires the design of a user interface geared to user

ship recognition since as early as the nineteen-eighties. The

algorithms (HSU−UniBwHH), and databases (KdoMFüSys).

images easily, swiftly and reliably. Furthermore, only

and mission needs, as realised in the KEOD support

results of the work have been incorporated into the ReuSe

The main features of the KEOD user interfaces are a display

marginal training effort is necessary because of the

system.

(German acronym for “computer-aided ship recognition”)

and operating concept adapted to the work process, including

software ergonomical design. The system is already being

demonstrator, which has been implemented in collaboration

user- and task-oriented interfaces, and functions geared to

used successfully on various platforms of the German

with Bundeswehr Technical Centre WTD 71 in Eckernförde,

the relevant system status. It allows the operator to monitor

Navy, such as fast patrol boats, submarines, frigates or

Germany, and has particularly demonstrated the effectiveness

and manage sensor images or image sequences. With the

combat support ships. It is currently being upgraded so

of its classification algorithms. This work has been advanced

aid of the classification algorithms the operator can now

as to also use KEOD in connection with airborne sensor

in recent years through cooperation between WTD 71,

classify ships on the basis of their silhouette or the position

platforms in future.

the Research Institute for Communication, Information

of distinct points (bow, stern, bridge, hot and cold spots, etc.)

Processing and Ergonomics of the Research Establishment

and also intervene in the classification process at any time.

operating conditions (for instance, in the context of the

for Applied Science (FGAN-FKIE), the German Naval C2 Systems Command (KdoMFüSys) and the Helmut-Schmidt-

The information entered by the user is compared with

University, and has ultimately led to the KEOD (German

the database contents, consisting of 3D models and other

acronym for “classification using electro-optical data”)

meta-information, and the results are displayed in a hit list

system, which is unique throughout the world.

arranged according to the degree of correlation with the reference data. A visual comparison of the vessel displayed

Fig. 1: Frigate SACHSEN at sea

Fig. 2: Soldiers of the naval protection forces during the UNIFIL mission

Fig. 3: In the ”Contour” system state the operator manually draws a contour around the vessel in the sensor image. This is then compared with reference contours from the data base

Fig. 4: Prominent features such as the position of masts and weapon systems can be marked in the “Characteristics” system state and compared with reference data

Fig. 5: The outcome of the classification is displayed in a hit list. It is possible to verify the proposed classification by making a visual comparison with reference images of vessel classes recognised by KEOD

Research Activities 2008

24

25

Dr. Robert Weiß FGAN-Forschungsinstitut für Optronik und Mustererkennung, Ettlingen

Dr. Peter Großmann FGAN-Forschungsinstitut für Optronik und Mustererkennung, Ettlingen

Dr. Gunnar Ritt FGAN-Forschungsinstitut für Optronik und Mustererkennung, Ettlingen

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Prediction of Infrared Visibility for the UH TIGER

Knowledge of these parameters then allows the use of the

Using the Mission Equipment Carrier of Bundeswehr

heat transfer equation to predict the temperature (Fig. 2).

Technical Centre WTD 61, numerous approaches toward a sample of object/background pairs were performed to

Once the temperature difference of an object/background

determine recognition ranges under realistic conditions.

pair has been predicted with the aid of the thermal models,

The flight tests took place at different day and night times and in all four seasons.

The UH TIGER helicopter is equipped with a thermal

The use of imaging sensors for flight control can be

a perception model can be used to calculate the recognition

imager for the pilot. Using it for flight control and

authorised only if the sensors are ensured to provide the

range for the object in front of that background. The

obstacle warning necessitates a certified procedure for

pilots with all the information that is needed. Flying with

perception model comprises the atmospheric transmission

A first version of the prediction procedure, developed by

predicting thermal infrared recognition ranges. Existing

them is otherwise just as impermissible as flying by sight

of the infrared radiation, its processing by the thermal imager,

the Bundeswehr Geoinformation Office (AGeoBw), has

range performance models cannot be readily adopted

in fog. To predict thermal infrared recognition ranges for

and the pilot’s perception of the presented information.

been introduced within the German Bundeswehr and is

for this purpose. The FGAN Research Institute for

flight applications, it is necessary to have thermal models

Recognition ranges for a large variety of possible thermal

currently undergoing testing. An improvement of the range

Optronics and Pattern Recognition (FGAN-FOM) has

for the objects and backgrounds that are relevant for flight

scenarios are needed for the development of representative

prediction is planned for the future. One particular aim,

been working on a suitable range prediction procedure.

control and obstacle warning. These obstacles include,

perception models. Extensive observer experiments involving

besides predicting the mean temperature of objects and

for example, masts and poles made of different materials,

the observer station of the FGAN-FOM have therefore been

backgrounds, is to forecast their temperature variability

power lines, trees and buildings, as well as backgrounds

performed together with the German Army Aviation School

(clutter).

such as meadows, fields, forests, snow or the sky. Thermal

(Fig. 3) to gather sufficient statistical data for the creation

models allow the prediction of object temperature on the

of the perception models. The pilots, by making simulated

basis of weather forecasts. To create the thermal models,

approach sequences toward various objects, assessed the

long-term measurements have been performed in which,

recognition ranges for those objects. The presented image

with the aid of an environmental station, both the

data reflected the view of a thermal scenario in the way it

temperature of the objects and backgrounds in question

would be seen with the thermal imager of the UH TIGER

and the physical environmental parameters crucial for

(Fig. 4). Special attention was paid to borderline situations

the temperature dynamics have been recorded in parallel

where objects had low recognisability.

(Fig. 1). By adapting the measurement data to a heat The use of synthetic image material to create perception

material parameters for the object and background.

models requires validation of the results by real flight tests.

Temperature in °C

transfer equation it is possible to derive the characteristic

Fig. 1: Measuring set-up at WTD 91 for conducting long-term temperature measurements to develop thermal models. Seen at the left edge of the photo is the environmental measurement station

Fig. 2: Temperature forecast for a metal mast. The red measurement values were used to create the thermal model. The temperature prediction made by the model is represented by the grey band (mean temperature + standard deviation). The blue measurement values serve to validate the prediction

Fig. 3: Pilots of the German Army Aviation School during an observer experiment

Fig. 4:Simulated approach toward a concrete mast in front of a field (500 mK temperature difference between object and background; temperature variability of 250 mK in object and background, respectively). The mast is located at the centre of the image and was identified by 50 percent of the pilots

Research Activities 2008

26 Dipl.-Ing. Richard Gabler FGAN-Forschungsinstitut für Optronik und Mustererkennung, Ettlingen

27 WTD 71 has put together and procured the LEXXWAR

response to the wide variety of possible target types, ranges,

(Long-Term Experimental Setup for Asymmetric Warfare)

backgrounds and climate zones.

system as a means of experimentally analysing the entire

[email protected]

Automatic Image Analysis for Ship-based Panoramic Surveillance and Target Recognition

functional chain. The SIMONE system from Diehl BGT

The FGAN-FOM’s algorithms designed initially for the

Defence is being used for panoramic surveillance and

detection of airborne targets have been adapted and up-

includes multiple onboard IR sensors to achieve 360°

graded in line with the new challenges. This has required the

horizontal coverage. Potential targets detected by SIMONE

advancement of all the sub-processes (image enhancement,

are sighted by the high-resolution IR camera as part of a

image stabilisation, motion-compensating frame stacking,

multi-sensor platform (MSP 500 or MSP 600) from Rhein-

object detection, tracking, and classification). Several

metall Defence and then analysed by a target recognition

sub-processes specific to a certain subset of targets are

system provided by EADS and ATLAS Elektronik. The

being used in parallel, such as objects of a certain pixel

When on operations, the vessels of the German Navy

The change in the mission spectrum of the German Navy

targets are ultimately acquired by an IR sensor installed

size or objects moving at a certain speed. The intermediate

are confronted with multiple dangers from the air, sea

means that, in addition to the classic threats mainly from

on an OTO Melara gun, tracked and, after operator

results achieved in this connection are then merged.

and land. An optronic addition to radar intelligence is

anti-ship missiles, very different forms of asymmetric

confirmation, engaged.

essential, especially in case of asymmetric threats such

warfare have to be faced. Attacks from short and close-in

as speedboats and swimmers. Coordinated sensors and

range now have to be expected, frequently from the

The FGAN Research Institute for Optronics and Pattern

affordably against asymmetric threats, it will be

image analysis methods would facilitate automatic

supposed safety of a civilian environment. Terrorist attacks

Recognition (FGAN-FOM) conducts basic research and

advantageous as well as conducive to enhance optronic

panoramic surveillance and target recognition.

generally do not involve vehicles and weapon systems

makes the findings available to government agencies and

sensors and the evaluation of the sensor data for new fields

recognised as weapons of war, but inflatable and other

authorised companies. The research ranges from the

of use, including as yet unconsidered scenarios.

small boats, for instance. Currently operational vessels,

acquisition of image data, to the design and implementation

however, do not have adequate capabilities to detect and

of algorithms, to hardware solutions for verifying real-time

combat such threats.

capability. Up to the year 2000, the FGAN-FOM’s work for

To defend vessels of the German Navy efficiently and

the German Navy was focused on the automatic detection New optronic systems are needed to permit better defence

of airborne targets at greatest possible distances. These

against asymmetric threats. The Federal Office of Defence

image processing methods realised at that time have been

Technology and Procurement (BWB) and the Bundeswehr

evaluated extensively and are generally able to detect

Technical Centre for Ships and Naval Weapons (WTD 71),

airborne targets in IR image sequences better than a human

in particular business areas 220 (Surface Functional Chains)

eye observing a monitor screen.

and 560 (Optronics, IR Technology), are examining new optronic components for Germany’s F-125 frigate and other

The detection of asymmetric threats is additionally under

types of vessel.

consideration, given the new mission spectrum of the German Navy. Broader image analysis is being used in

Fig. 1: The future F-125 frigate is to be equipped with new optronic sensors and dedicated automatic image processing for better protection against asymmetric threats

Fig. 2: SIMONE system (DIEHL BGT Defence) for panoramic surveillance. Shown here is a model with five IR cameras

Fig. 3: Multi-Sensor Platform MSP 500 (Rheinmetall Defence) with a high-resolution IR sensor

Fig. 4: Block diagram of the FGAN-FOM algorithms for automatic panoramic surveillance and target recognition

Fig. 5: Approaching boat at various distances (three frames from an IR sequence). Detected objects are automatically tracked, and conclusions about potential threats are drawn by analysing the motion behaviour

Research Activities 2008

28 Dipl.-Ing. Matthias Boljen Fraunhofer-Institut für Kurzzeitdynamik, Ernst-Mach-Institut, Freiburg [email protected]

29 resolution structural models. While the former approach

model took place in special characterisation tests, which

can quickly produce numerical data that require critical

made it possible to determine material parameters required

interpretation (due to lack of allowance for the fabric’s

to customise the model configuration for various fabric

important mesostructure), the modelling and computational

materials.

effort involved with the latter approach is so high that

Modelling of Woven Fabrics

processing of the accumulated amount of data is no longer

Numerical studies are therefore able to effectively support

justifiable.

the design process for body armour and other lightweight protective woven structures beforehand and help reduce

The aim of developing a representative and efficient

the need for costly and time-consuming experiments

material model at the Fraunhofer EMI has hence been to

(Fig. 4). Integrating the weave-specific mesostructure into

take account of the yarn interactions at the mesostructural

a continuum-mechanical material model bypasses the

A model for woven material fabrics has been developed

Ballistic vests are designed to protect wearers from lethal

level solely through the approach of a representative

problem of very small elements and, consequently, of small

at the Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics,

injuries caused by small arms projectiles, shell splinters,

volume technique used extensively in material modelling

time steps and very long computational run times. Also, the

Ernst-Mach-Institut (EMI) that can be used to analyse

and stabbing, slashing and thrusting weapons. The core of

literature (Fig. 2), and to directly derive the stresses acting

typical yarn interactions crucial for understanding woven

the interactions between projectiles from small arms

such protective armour is made of high-strength polymer

at a macroscopic level from the mesoscopic-scale loads.

fabric material behaviour are directly accessed and can be

and ballistic vests. The behaviour of the woven material

fibre materials, which are sewn into the body of the

By thus integrating a micromechanical kinematic model

modelled on a physical basis.

structure is taken into account by means of a represen-

ballistic vest in the form of a liner comprising several

into a continuum-mechanical formulation, it is still possible

tative volume cell ‘coupled’ to the macroscopic deforma-

dozen individual woven layers (Fig. 1). The protection

to easily create, and very efficiently use, computational

tion of the woven material.

level afforded by this soft armour can be enhanced by

models of complex three-dimensional structures. What is

adding protective inserts or ceramic plates at the front and

new, however, is the possibility to take account of the real

back to stop small arms, rifle or machine gun fire.

woven yarn configuration at the mesostructural level within the representative unit cell, thereby providing access to

Until today, knowledge about the mechanical behaviour and

the configuration of the nonlinear material properties and

manufacture of woven fabrics and how to achieve the best

greatly facilitating parameter studies of virtual woven fabric

ballistic results has been of an empirical nature. New

setups and fibre material properties.

developments are dominated by extensive experimental testing that is as costly as it is time-consuming. Numerical

The actually three-dimensional woven structure is modelled

tools have not, so far, been able to provide a thorough

by superposing two arbitrarily oriented, transversely isotropic

insight into the deformation of woven fabrics under impact

layers representing the warp and weft yarn systems (Fig. 3).

conditions. This has been due, firstly, to material models

All the stress tensor components are determined by means

oversimplifying and being phenomenologically based and,

of the integrated kinematic model and are derived from

secondly, to exceedingly high computational costs of high-

nonlinear constitutive equations. The validation of the

Representative volume cell

Weft yarn system

Tensor transformation Local element coordinate system

Effective thickness

Dissipative yarn rotation Warp yarn system

Yarn span

Weft thread yarn

Fig. 1: The core of flexible body armour comprises many individual woven layers of high-strength, high-tenacity fibre material. Three different fabric types made for ballistic protection purposes have been tested at the Fraunhofer EMI

Warp thread yarn

Fig. 2: The displayed representative volume cell is the smallest repetitive unit of a woven structure. Taking account of the yarn interactions at the mesoscopic level is crucial for deriving the macroscopic material response

Tensor transformation

Fig. 3: The approach used by the developed material model consists in depicting the interwoven yarn families as transversely isotropic, homogeneous layers and in expressing the stress tensors derived from the kinematic model shown in Fig. 2 in a common coordinate system

Fig. 4: The material model can be used to simulate the impact of any kinds of projectile as a means of analysing the behaviour of the woven fabric. It takes account of woven-fabric-specific deformation modes as well as the strain-rate dependency of polymeric highperformance fibre materials such as aramid or polyethylene

Research Activities 2008

30

31

Dipl.-Ing. Martin Hunzinger Fraunhofer-Institut für Kurzzeitdynamik, Ernst-Mach-Institut, Freiburg

interaction with the projectile. The ceramic fragments are

which the particles are illuminated during the experiment.

extracted from the target chamber through a succession

Fig. 3 shows the assembly set up in the laboratory for

of sieves and separated into size classes. Fig. 1 shows a

demonstration purposes. Using an artificial fog, both the

[email protected]

comparison of the fragment masses in the different size

lightsheet (green) and the line of fire (red) are visualised

classes for three Al2O3 3 ceramics with average grain sizes

in the open target box. Given the performance potential

ranging between 0.5 µm and 10 µm.

of the employed CMOS camera with regard to the frame

Analysis of the Fragmentation of Ballistic Ceramics using the Laser Lightsheet Illumination Technique

rate and image resolution, it is necessary to restrict the Methods previously used to visualise the process of impact

measured area (shown in yellow in Fig. 2) to one that is

have the disadvantage that it is not possible, or possible

small but representative. The measurement plane above

only to a limited extent, to observe single fragments from

the line of fire has been defined and configured as an

the impact area or the ejection of particles over a prolonged

elongated rectangle, assuming a (statistically) balanced

At the Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics,

It is well known that the ballistic resistance of ceramics

period from a defined area. The diagram embedded in

fragment distribution within the fragment cone. It has

Ernst-Mach-Institute (EMI), a method for analysing

is influenced by hardness, Young’s modulus, compressive

Fig. 4 illustrates this, showing the fragments ejected from

thus been possible to detect all the particles above the

the fragmentation of ballistic ceramics upon projectile

strength and fracture behaviour. An analysis of the

a crater upon impact of a 7.62 mm armour-piercing bullet.

line of fire and in the measurement plane and still track

impact and penetration has been developed. Before

multifarious ballistic data relating to ceramics in different

the projectile penetrates, the shock waves generated

projectile/target configurations indicates that the different

In order to establish an instantaneous time-resolved

velocities of more than 300 m/s and, with the aid of special

upon impact and the brittleness of the ceramic always

parameters influencing ballistic resistance do not act to

correlation between the ejected fragments and the penetration

tracking software, carry out a size and velocity analysis.

result in damage to the material, with the type of

equal effect, but that there is a hierarchic ranking. In order

process, the lightsheet technique has been employed,

fragmentation playing an important role in the ballistic

to study these correlations systematically, an experimental

representing a novel approach. It involves the use of a laser

Fig. 4 shows a sequence of three images from a high-speed

resistance.

set-up has been developed to analyse the fragmentation

and is a non-invasive method for visualising single particles

video recorded at a rate of 100,000 frames per second.

behaviour of ceramics upon impact. The main objectives

in a defined measuring plane with a high time resolution

Several particles of differing size can be seen flying by

of the experiments are not only the complete recovery of

rate and for determining the velocity, direction and size of

(from left to right) in the sequence.

all ceramic particles generated through the interaction

single particles. The drawing of the experimental set-up

with the projectile, but also the observation and velocity

shown in Fig. 2 illustrates the functional principle of this

The analysis method is being applied to transparent

measurement of the particles immediately after their

method.

MgO-Al2O3 3 spinel material and to opaque Al2O3

them within two consecutive images even at high initial

formation with the aid of optical methods.

ceramics which have been developed by Fraunhofer IKTS The punctiform laser beam is conducted into a special

(Institute for Ceramic Technology and Systems) and whose

As a first step, a target configuration was designed to assure

lightsheet optical system, where it is formed into a linear

properties, such as hardness and Young’s Modulus, have been

that only those ceramic fragments which had interacted

divergent beam. A diverting mirror conducts this fan of

selectively adjusted by way of the microstructure. The

with the projectile would be ejected from the crater. The

light downward into the target box in front of the ceramic

expectation is that the results of the fragmentation behavio-

target is installed in a target chamber, allowing complete

target. The lightsheet aligned orthogonally in relation to

ur analyses will yield vital information for designing future

recovery and analysis of the ceramic fragments from the

the ceramic’s surface defines the measurement plane in

ceramics with enhanced ballistic resistance.

Periscope

Sintered corundum 1

Light-Sheet optics

Sintered corundum 2

Fragmentmass [g]

Sintered corundum 3

Laserhead

Targetbox Measuring Cone of fragments plane Target

Line of fire

Direction of Motion of the Fragments Lightsheet

2.18 ms 2.20 ms 2.22 ms

Mesh Size [mm]

Fig. 1: Fragment mass distribution of three Al2O3 ceramics of different grain sizes

Fig. 2: Schematic diagram of the LASER-light-sheet-illuminationtechnique

Fig. 3: Visualization of the LASER-light-sheet with artificial fog

Line of Fire

Fig. 4: Sequence with an image resolution of 832 x 64 Pixel, framerate: 100,000 frames per second, time interval: 20 µs, duration of exposure: 1 µs, picture size: approx. 3.7 mm x 50 mm, particle speed approx. 22 m/s; right: cone of fragments

Research Activities 2008

32 Dr.-Ing. Axel Hülsmann Fraunhofer-Institut für Angewandte Festkörperphysik, Freiburg

Dipl.-Ing. Manfred Hägelen FGAN-Forschungsinstitut für Hochfrequenzphysik und Radartechnik, Wachtberg

[email protected]

[email protected]

Novel Radar-supported Landing Aid System for Helicopters

33 accurate. A radar system operating at 94 GHz, however,

The complex digital signal processing, oscillator linearisation

is able to “see” through dust particles. The atmosphere’s

and calibration activities are carried out using software from

attenuation at 94 GHz presents a transmission window, and

the FGAN-FHR. System integration in the helicopter and

it is possible to achieve a large signal bandwidth, which

information monitoring are done by ESG, who also conduct

is the determining factor for the radar range resolution at

the ongoing evaluation flights to optimise the system and

this frequency. A helicopter landing aid system comprising

provide feedback for possible sensor improvements. Fig. 4

several redundant compact radar sensors is then able to

shows the mission equipment test helicopter operated

achieve the required high resolution.

by the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Information Technology and Electronics (WTD 81). The next generation

Thanks to continual funding from the German Ministry

of radar sensors is already under development, and impro-

of Defence (BMVg), the Fraunhofer IAF and FGAN-FHR

vements regarding phase noise, thermal drift and signal

To aid helicopter pilots when landing under difficult

Brigadier Richard Bolz, Chief of the German Army Aviation

have many years of R&D experience with III-V semicon-

strength are on the agenda. Helicopter landing aids represent

conditions, the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid

Corps and commanding officer of the Army Aviation School,

ductors and millimetre wave systems for defence applications.

a good example of how defence-related R&D is helping to

State Physics (IAF) and the FGAN Research Institute

finds that, due to foreign assignments, the environmental

The IAF with its sophisticated technology is unique in

improve mission conditions in the field.

for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques

conditions for aircraft missions have changed significantly.

Europe. Its strategic importance for defence-related industry

(FGAN-FHR) are jointly developing a novel, compact

When helicopters are operated near to the ground in

is growing, as required components are often not available

94 GHz radar system. A vertical resolution of 2 cm

climatically very dry regions, and also under snow

on the European commercial market. Fig. 2 shows an

and a helicopter drift of less than 1 m per minute are

conditions, loose particles such as snow, sand or similar

integrated FMCW radar circuit. Because of the inherently

measurable up to a height of 30 m. Both research

are swirled up and obstruct the pilot’s vision. The horizon

high ESD (electro-static discharge) sensitivity, the radar

institutes support the defence industry with state-of-the-

and all other reference points can become lost, and

chip is operated using a sophisticated protection circuit.

art, strategic electronic components that are otherwise

obstacles become unrecognisable. Landing in particular

The chip-to-waveguide connections have been optimised

unavailable.

represents a critical flying manoeuvre during the day and

with the aid of numerical field simulation. Fig. 3 shows a

at night, as well as in formation, and is a key qualification

compact 94 GHz FMCW radar sensor with a flanged-on

for ensuring the successful conduct of missions. The

horn antenna. These compact radar sensors are used in both

helicopters currently in use do not have a dust-penetrating

the height and drift radar sub-systems from the FGAN-FHR.

capability to determine drift, height, obstacles or clearance.

The prototype of the helicopter landing aid comprises

A technical solution to assist pilots is urgently needed so

nine radar sensors. The left-hand side of Fig. 4 shows the

as to assure safe landings under brown-out conditions.

drift module containing a total of four radar sensors, and the right-hand side one of the five height modules. These

Fig. 1 shows a typical landing situation. Optically guided

modules form the prototype system from ESG Elektronik-

helicopter landing aids, including infra-red devices, fail to

system- und Logistik-GmbH.

penetrate dust, and conventional radars are insufficiently

Fig. 1: Bundeswehr helicopter CH-53 landing near a river bed under brown-out conditions

Fig. 2: Fully integrated single-chip frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar developed by the Fraunhofer IAF

Fig. 3: Compact FMCW radar sensor with flanged-on horn antenna from the Fraunhofer IAF

Fig. 4: Mission equipment test helicopter operated by the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Information Technology and Electronics (WTD 81). The left-hand side shows the drift module comprising a total of four radar sensors, and the right-hand side one of the five height modules

Research Activities 2008

34

35

Dipl.-Ing. Jochen Neutz Fraunhofer-Institut für Chemische Technologie, Pfinztal

the variable configurability of the bag shape and the small

the vehicle to bring the vehicle to a relatively soft halt.

packaging volume in the original state. Suitable configuration

The damage to the vehicle is thereby kept within limits

[email protected]

of the bag geometry and use of highly resistant fabrics

in contrast to conventional barriers (concrete blocks, steel

provide the possibility to realise non-lethal barrier systems

posts).

to deal with single persons / groups of persons, as well as to protect entrances to buildings or parts of buildings.

Fast-Deployable Barriers as Non-Lethal Weapons

The tactical operational scenarios imaginable for the individual technical designs are presented briefly in the following. Personnel barriers can be designed as fence-like structures (Fig. 1) and as foot traps (Fig. 2 and Fig. 3). Both can be

The deployment of the Bundeswehr on peacekeeping

The deployment of the Bundeswehr as part of peacekeeping

placed in the ground in camouflaged state and be actuated

missions requires additions to existing equipment to

missions requires a rethink both of mission tactics and of

by dedicated sensors / hand, as applicable. Airbag-type

provide field units with an adequate and de-escalating

the equipment in use. Non-lethal weapons take on a special

fences can serve to segregate groups of persons or to keep

response to current threat situations. Fast-deployable

significance within the framework of these missions as

them at bay. Both barriers are suitable within the scope of

barriers based on modified airbag systems can help in

their attributes enable the deployed forces to respond

the Armed Forces' broader task spectrum for use during

this regard to secure camps or sensitive areas.

suitably to the intensity of escalation. On such missions

peacekeeping missions to secure camps and protect against

non-lethal barriers are of particular interest for the

large crowds consisting of combatants / non-combatants.

protection of infrastructures, the guidance or segregation

The effectiveness of the barriers can be greatly enhanced

of crowds, and use at check points. The barriers can be

through combination with other non-lethal means, such as

deployed against single persons, crowds and light vehicles.

pepper spray. The foot trap barrier comprises multiple airbags concealed in the ground about the terrain that needs

The barriers currently available are generally based on

safeguarding and thus constitutes an area obstacle.

modified fence or wall structures and can therefore be used

Fig. 1: Airbag barrier as a fence

only for the static protection of infrastructures or for events

Barriers designed for use against light vehicles (Fig. 4) can

with long lead times. A promising possibility for realising

be employed in setting up check points. The pyrotechnic

mobile and fast-deployable barriers is the use of modified

propellant cartridge serves as an actuator to trigger the

airbags. The working principle is based on the fast generation

barrier disguised as a “speed bump” and can be activated

of gas by means of pyrotechnic propellants, which inflate a

by securing forces to stop suspicious vehicles from breaking

bag structure especially designed for the application. Airbag

through. The barrier system forms an obstacle, blocking the

systems have deployment times ranging from 11 ms to

front axle of the vehicle and using the friction caused

35 ms. Advantages when used as a mobile barrier include

between the ground and the barrier by the dead weight of

Fig. 2: Airbag barrier as a foot trap

Fig. 3: Airbag with a volume of 60 dm³ in fully inflated state

Fig. 4: Concept for stopping light vehicles on the basis of a pyrotechnic actuator

Research Activities 2008

36 Barbara Essendorfer, M.A. Fraunhofer-Institut für Informations- und Datenverarbeitung, Karlsruhe

Dipl.-Inform. Wilmuth Müller NATO Consultation, Command and Control Agency, Den Haag

barbara.essendorfer@ iitb.fraunhofer.de

[email protected]

37 evaluation results can now be stored and combined in

The benefit of sharing information through the CSD,

the CSD. The enhancements have been submitted to the

demonstrated during NATO TRIAL QUEST 2007 and the

STANAG 4559 Custodian Support Team for adoption in

Bundeswehr experiment COMMON SHIELD 2008, has

the STANAG and will be (partially) introduced with

led to the planned adoption of the CSD by the Bundeswehr

Edition 3 of STANAG 4559.

und NATO. Current research is focusing on embedding the CSD in a SOA (Service Oriented Architecture). There

Interoperable Sharing of Reconnaissance Information via the Coalition Shared Database (CSD)

The products stored in the CSD are described and combined

is also the intention to support other types of information

with one another by means of metadata, i.e. information

gathering, such as HUMINT (Human Intelligence).

about the stored products. As an example: in response to information requirements, a C2 system generates task data that – in combination with metadata (creator, time, status, The Coalition Shared Database (CSD) concept has

During recent conflicts in which the Bundeswehr and allied

etc.) – are stored in the CSD. As a next step, using a CSD

been developed within the multinational MAJIIC

forces were engaged, it was not possible to share and analyse

client, a sensor system retrieves the relevant task data either

(Multi-Sensor Aero-Ground Joint ISR Interoperability

ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and

automatically (by subscription) or via a search (query) in

Coalition) project and tested both in NATO exercises

Reconnaissance) data in time among the forces involved

the meta-database. The sensor system plans its mission, and

and in CD&E projects of the Bundeswehr. The CSD

because of technical and operational difficulties, resulting

data are generated and stored in the CSD and combined

makes the interoperable exchange of ISR data possible

in the loss of human life and material.

with the task data, so that the task/sensor product relationship is reconstructed. An evaluation system receives a task,

through a data model for information requirements and task messages, through the sensor data and

The multinational MAJIIC project has been set up to avoid

searches for specific (sensor) products and analyses them.

evaluation results thereby generated, as well as through

this in future. The aim is to maximise the military benefit

As a result, reports are generated, stored in the CSD and

standardised data access.

from ISTAR systems by establishing technical, procedural

combined with the relevant task and sensor data.

and operational interoperability. A key element in this connection is standardised data dissemination.

It is thus possible to retrace the entire reconnaissance cycle, and evaluated data can be contextualised in a later analysis.

The CSD concept has been developed with this in mind.

Sensor products from different sensor types (GMTI, images

The CSD is based on STANAG 4559, which defines

and videos) can be reviewed, combined and thoroughly

programming interfaces and a data model to facilitate the

analysed. To make information available no matter where and

storage and dissemination of reconnaissance products. The

when it is needed, the CSD concept facilitates automatic

complexity of today’s coalition operations calls for an

synchronisation of the metadata between the different servers.

enhancement of the STANAG data model. A wide variety

When a product is of interest, it can then be retrieved.

of sensor data (Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI), images, videos, tracks), as well as tasking information and

Fig. 1: Data generation, retrieval and synchronisation via CSD

Fig. 2: Geo coordinate-based query using a CSD Client

Fig. 3: Query results

Research Activities 2008

38 Dr. Theo Köble Fraunhofer-Institut für NaturwissenschaftlichTechnische Trendanalysen, Euskirchen

Dr. Wolfgang Rosenstock Fraunhofer-Institut für NaturwissenschaftlichTechnische Trendanalysen, Euskirchen

[email protected]

wolfgang.rosenstock@ int.fraunhofer.de

See It with Neutrons

39 consumption, as well as an easy, robust and efficient high-

Future research is to be focused, for the time being, on

resolution detection system.

increasing the neutron detection efficiency, enhancing the spatial resolution and optimising the set-up of the neutron

The research has shown that good imaging of structured objects is readily possible when using a good neutron source such as a research reactor, where the neutron flux and

The long-term aim is rapid high-resolution imaging of the

parallelism of the beam are high (see Fig. 1). The recorded

inner structures of an object in-situ.

image shows a plexiglass block with small embedded tubes made of different metals, which are additionally covered by a lead plate. A hydrogen-containing converter with scintillator was used here as a detector that generates light from the The Fraunhofer Institute for Technological Trend

In recent years, terrorist threats of “dirty bombs” or

neutrons, which then produces an image on a CCD camera.

Analysis (INT) is conducting research into how neutron

“improvised nuclear devices” (INDs) have been extensively

As an alternative, an indium metal foil can also be used as

imaging methods can be put to mobile and in-situ use,

discussed. The Bundeswehr is also at risk from such threats

a detector which, once activated by the neutrons, is then

for which purpose a small, mobile neutron generator

when on deployments abroad. To be able to adequately

autoradiographed on an image plate and read out in an image

is employed. Mobile neutron radiography can serve to

counter such a threat situation, it is imperative to detect the

plate reading device.

complement X-ray imaging for identifying unknown

explosive and radioactive/nuclear materials as fast and as

objects that might be “dirty bombs” or “improvised

accurately as possible. Once that information is available, it

The objective of the current research activities is to put

nuclear devices”.

is possible to make a correct estimate of the type and extent

the methods that already work at the research reactor to

of the hazard and to take appropriate defensive action.

mobile use in combination with a neutron generator. Only then will it also be possible to use neutron radiography

Fig. 1: Neutron radiograph of a polyethylene test object containing small tubes of different material concealed behind lead (taken using the neutron beam of the FRM II research reactor in Garching)

generator.

Standard X-ray imaging often does not generate evaluable

locally. Experiments involving a large neutron generator

images when objects are heavily shielded against radiation,

that supplies a high number of neutrons were conducted

because the X-rays are too greatly attenuated. Neutrons,

initially (see Fig. 2). The neutrons from the neutron generator

however, can very easily penetrate heavy materials. X-ray

are non-directional, in contrast to those from the reactor.

imaging of light materials, such as plastics or explosives, also

This necessitates placing the neutron generator and object

yields a low contrast, while neutrons are highly dispersed

close to one another. The small neutron generator (see Fig. 3)

on light materials and thus produce a particularly good

consists of only two components and a control laptop, and

image of them. Neutron radiography can hence be considered

weighs only 16 kg. This neutron generator is, therefore,

as complementary to X-ray radiography. Mobile neutron

readily mobile and can be easily placed next to an object.

radiography requires a small, light and sturdy neutron

Its neutron yield however is lower, currently making longer

generator with a high neutron intensity and low energy

irradiation periods necessary.

Fig. 2: Neutron radiographic measurements using the SAMES neutron generator of Fraunhofer INT: neutrons are passed through a plastic test object containing small glass tubes, and a Dysprosium foil is activated. The foil is then autoradiographed on an image plate. The image plate is read out by means of a special scanner

Fig. 3: Test measurement using the small, mobile GENIE16c neutron generator: The neutron generator consists of a metallic (silver) neutron tube and a control attaché case (beneath the table). It is remote-controlled via a cable connected with the laptop

Research Activities 2008

40

41

Dr. Martin Laurenzis Deutsch-Französisches Forschungsinstitut, Saint-Louis

compact and portable prototypes with a maximum observa-

scene reflectance, the dynamic range of the grey scale, and

tion range from 3 km to 10 km. The institute also specialises

the image noise (CCD sensor and ambient light intensifier).

[email protected]

in solutions customised for different applications.

A depth accuracy better than 30 m/km for dark areas, and better than 10 m/km for bright areas, has been achieved.

Gated Viewing with Super-resolution Depth Mapping

A major topic in the field of gated viewing is the research

This depth resolution is 10 to 30 times better than the

and development of new methods for three-dimensional (3D)

resolution limit for laser tomography. The method is found

imaging. Usually the 3D information is obtained through

to be capable of super-resolution depth mapping at video

laser tomography analysis of the scene and variation of

rates and, hence, in real time.

the sensor delay. This method is based on analysing the information present in each light slice, i.e. for each sensor gate delay and each pixel of the distinct images. DepthFor precisely 50 years now the Franco-German Research

Gated active imaging is a direct visualisation technique

mapping a scene by this method typically requires dozens

Institute Saint-Louis (ISL) has been working in different

that uses an image sensor array and its own illumination

of gated viewing images. The actual number of images

defence domains as a bi-national institute on behalf of

source. In contrast to laser scanning techniques, an entire

depends on the depth of the scene, the system parameters

the French and German ministries of defence. The ISL

scene is illuminated by means of a laser pulse, and the

and the desired depth resolution.

has developed a new depth mapping method for night

active imaging signal is able to directly display a two-

vision applications that overcomes the classic resolution

dimensional image of the scene. The synchronisation of

The ISL has developed a new 3D imaging technique that can

limits. It is based on gated viewing, a prominent

the sensor gate and pulsed illumination allows so-called

reduce the number of required images and, consequently,

all-weather night vision technique in which a sensor

gated viewing, which provides the reflectivity for a scene

the number of utilised laser pulses. The technique employs

gate is synchronised with pulsed laser illumination.

at a certain range. Image distortion, such as atmospheric

a specific gated viewing effect and overcomes the classic

This method makes it possible to select the observation

backscattering or parasite light sources, is suppressed.

depth resolution limits. To determine the depth of a scene,

range and a precise depth measurement, with the scene

Shown in Fig. 1 are several examples of surveillance or

the recorded intensity of two images is analysed compara-

reflectance and depth information being recorded in a

security applications, e.g. vision through smoke or fog,

tively. This permits super-resolution depth mapping of

single image.

area surveillance, coast guarding, and helicopter-based

entire scenes from a limited number of images.

observation systems. Two gated viewing images for calculating a super-resolution

Fig. 1: Application of gated viewing: vision through smoke, area surveillance, coast guarding, and helicopterbased observation systems

Fig. 2: Gated viewing systems based on laser diode illumination (height approx. 130 cm)

A number of experimental prototypes have been developed

depth-mapping image are shown in Fig. 3 as an example. The

which work in the ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared NIR

sensor gate, laser pulse width and delay have been chosen

(266 nm to 1.6 ␮m) wavelength range. Because of the

so as to reconstruct the depth in a range from 950 m to

availability of compact, high-brilliance laser diode arrays

1550 m. The 3D information can be depicted, for instance,

of around 810 nm, the work is being focused on that wave-

as a colour-coded depth map (Fig. 4) or as a virtual 3D

length range. As depicted in Fig. 2, the ISL is able to realise

representation (Fig. 5). The depth accuracy depends on the

Fig. 3: Two gated viewing images recorded for super-resolution depth mapping

Fig. 4: Colour-coded depth map at a range of 950 m to 1550 m and with a depth accuracy better than 30 m/km, calculated from two gated viewing images

Fig. 5: Virtual 3D representation of gated viewing data using super-resolution depth mapping

Research Activities 2008

42 Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bernd Niemeyer, Helmut-Schmidt-Universität – Universität der Bundeswehr Hamburg, Fakultät Maschinenbau

Dr. habil, Dr. rer. nat. Andre Richardt Wehrwissenschaftliches Institut für Schutztechnologien – ABC-Schutz, Munster

[email protected]

[email protected]

Integrated Protection against C-Weapons based on Detection and Decontamination using Novel Molecule Structures

43 different clusters). The spectrum of substances currently

High-throughput synthesis and evaluation geared to the

encompasses 150 different phosphororganic compounds

parallel experimental synthesis of these new molecules, and

(POC), including highly toxic warfare agents as well as

the determination of their effectiveness in the laboratory, take

chemically related substances. Fig. 1 shows the arrangement

place in apparatus comprising 192 parallel microreactors,

of 45 hazardous compounds according to their chemical

where important parameters (such as temperature, pressure,

properties. The distances between the clusters from left to

etc.) can be selectively adjusted and the reactivity analysed

right visualise the chemical similarity between the clusters.

spectrometrically through a colour reaction. This could permit

Clusters 1 and 2 are, for example, very similar and could

a faster and substantially more cost-effective catalyst and

be merged, while the difference between clusters 1, 5, and

sensor development with fewer ecological impacts.

6, is very pronounced. The experimental work to develop detecting surfaces and catalysing surfaces for them has to

The first successes in regard to these molecules’ design

be carried out with different lead substances.

have been achieved in the laboratory. The molecules are

The danger posed to military personnel by the

The Bundeswehr Research Institute for Protective Techno-

asymmetric threat of NBC agents is omnipresent. There

logies and NBC Protection (WIS) and the Helmut-Schmidt-

is, consequently, an urgent need to reduce this danger

University – University of the Bundeswehr Hamburg

Molecular dynamic modelling and simulation (MD) for

qualities. Where the design of the sensor concept is

through early detection and swiftest possible decon-

(HSU − UniBwHH) are working together to develop specific

the computer-based preselection of suitable solid structures

concerned, strict attention has to be paid that information

tamination. Synthetic enzymes, or Artificial Enzyme

molecules for detecting and detoxifying chemical agents.

conductive to the adsorption of harmful substances, on the

obtained by the sensor systems is forwarded directly to

Mimics (AEM), are being developed in order to

To investigate new scientific ideas of NBC detection and

basis of which the chemical degradation and detection then

the decision makers. This scientific approach, which

facilitate detection and to chemically degrade such

decontamination for the future, they have taken the

take place. This method makes it possible to assess and newly

attempts to find new molecules to meet detection and

chemical substances. Iterative modification of the base

approach of

generate well known structures. Also, the computational

decontamination needs, could yield substantial benefits

compounds in computer simulations and their testing

>> embedding these molecules, for decontamination

work is considerably faster than laboratory experiments.

compared with the conventional separated methods.

currently being tested for their sensory and detoxifying

in the laboratory generate optimised catalyst and

purposes, in reactive layers, this applying both to filter

Fig. 2 presents a three-dimensional structure consisting of

detection modules for different, highly toxic substances.

layers in the protective clothing of military personnel

six units of glucose. The presented results are based on the

and to filters for collective protection;

use of alpha-cyclodextrine (CD) as a detection molecule. By

>> simultaneously using these molecules as potential novel sensor material to detect highly toxic substances.

binding chemical groups to the yellow-marked “anchorage places”, it is possible to selectively alter the properties for adsorption or reaction. Fig. 3 shows the simulation results

The following methods are applied:

for the adsorption of a POC on differently modified CD molecules. For reasons of clarity the individual substituents

Cluster analysis for detecting and merging chemically

bound to the yellow-marked anchor molecules are not

similar compounds (in clusters) in order to develop

indicated. The binding of VX to an unmodified CD (upper

specifically acting catalysts and minimise the number of

line) and to a CD molecule “closed” on the bottom side

experiments needed (selection of lead substances from

(lower graphs) is visualised in Fig. 4.

Cluster 1

Cluster 2 Cluster 3

Cluster 4

Cluster 5 Cluster 6 Estimated free binding energy in kcal/mol

Fig. 1: Dendrogramme from a cluster analysis of 45 hazardous substances. The smaller the distance between the clusters (indicated by the right-hand connecting lines between relevant clusters), the more similar the chemical properties of the elements in the relevant clusters

Fig. 2: Three-dimensional structure of an alpha-cyclodextrin molecule for visualising possible substitution places (yellow); colours of the atoms: C = green, O = red; hydrogen atoms are not represented

Fig. 3: Summary of simulation results for the adsorption of a POC on differently modified CD molecules. Circle: unmodified base material. Colours: Modification of the CD molecule on the C atoms: C2: red; C3: blue; C6: green

Fig. 4: Results of the simulations (using AutoDock4/AutoDockTools) to dock an unmodified (top) and modified (bottom) CD detector molecule to a POC

Research Activities 2008

44 Dipl.-Inf. (FH) Johann Uhrmann Universität der Bundeswehr München, Institut für Flugsysteme

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Axel Schulte Universität der Bundeswehr München, Institut für Flugsysteme

[email protected]

[email protected]

45 tasks to the team in the certainty that they understand the

task, if required. Secondly, this ACU uses its knowledge

tasks involved, will solve problems and do their utmost to

about the mission, the tasks involved and the operator to

make the mission a success.

identify any pending stress situations and then suitably support the human operator. Thirdly, the system is designed

Manned-unmanned Teaming – UAV as Remote Sensor Platforms for Helicopters

MUM-T shows ways of applying cognitive capabilities

to take over those operator tasks where it is more efficient

to unmanned systems. The cognitive system architecture

than a human at yielding results (e.g. computation of arrival

(COSA) developed at the Bundeswehr University in

times, flight path planning).

Munich (UniBwM) forms the basis for artificial cognitive units (ACU), which are modelled on human cognition.

A combination of assistance system and UAV-ACU is under

These draw upon static knowledge relating to cue models,

development as part of the MUM-T project at the Institute

requirements, alternative courses of action, process models

of Flight Systems, UniBwM, with the aim of enabling a

UAV would be ideal support in collecting real-time

For unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to collect reconnaissance

and problem-solving strategies. This static knowledge enables

single UAV operator to guide multiple UAV from a manned

reconnaissance information on military helicopter

information, they have to be guided from a helicopter

the ACU to derive relevant cues from the sensor inputs, to

helicopter.

missions. Current systems however do not offer the

taking part in the mission. The UAV operator is located

perform concept matching and determine goals, and to

possibility for multiple UAV guidance in highly dynamic

in the cockpit of a manned helicopter to permit efficient

generate and execute plans to achieve those goals. This

scenarios. The “Manned-unmanned Teaming”

relaying of the information, his task being to guide multiple

knowledge is combined by the ACU to accomplish the

(MUM-T) research project demonstrates how to tap

UAV so that the information they collect helps bring about

tasks in the context of the mission objective. Having an

into the potential of UAV by using artificial cognition.

the success of the mission. Current UAV guidance systems

ACU onboard enables a UAV to execute high-level tasks

require the operator to plan and manage several UAV flight

and even to work together in teams. This, in turn, leads

routes independently of one another, to operate more than

to a virtual reduction of the leadership workload, since

one sensor platform, and to evaluate their accumulated sets

an operator can now issue tasks to a team of UAV.

of readings at the same time. One individual is unable to handle and supervise so many systems.

Although the introduction of such an ACU offers the operator the possibility of task-based team leadership, it

Fig. 1: The helicopter simulator at the Institute of Flight Systems, including the workstation of the UAV operator (left, with camera image of UAV) and pilot (right), is being used to develop, integrate and test artificial cognitive units in simulator missions

The situation changes when manned air vehicles are involved

involves a highly complex automation system which he/she

in a mission in addition to UAV. It then becomes possible

has to understand, operate and supervise. This, expectedly,

for the reconnaissance mission leader to use the support

can lead to a demanding workload and to operator errors.

of his/her colleagues. The question can be asked why it is

A virtual teammate is designed to preclude such problems.

easier to handle manned systems than UAV. The answer

An assistance ACU located at the operator workstation is

is the human capability for teaming. The reconnaissance

provided with the following attributes for this purpose.

mission leader does not have to micro-manage every tech-

Firstly, it has to be able to identify the most important

nical detail for his team members. Instead, he allocates

task at hand so as to draw the operator’s attention to that

Fig. 2: Rotary-wing UAV as a demonstrator and evaluation platform for the application of artificial cognitive units in flight guidance systems

Fig. 3: The fixed-wing UAV of the Institute of Flight Systems at the Bundeswehr University in Munich is equipped with a mission management system which provides the environment and hardware platform for the airborne artificial cognitive unit

Fig. 4: The mobile ground control station accommodates the operator workstation during field tests. It contains the operator console, an uninterruptible power supply for the on-board systems, computer platforms for the virtual assistant, GPS and data link systems, as well as transport capacity for the UAV

Research Activities 2008

46

47

Dipl.-Ing. Berthold Winck Amt für Geoinformationswesen der Bundeswehr, Euskirchen

is used to generate the DSM. It makes use of a high image

und laptops with high-end graphic cards. This requires

redundancy, where each point on the ground can be identified

special visualisation software. Three different results are

[email protected]

on about 12 different photos. The resultant interim products

produced: 3D worlds with façades like curtains (see Fig. 2

are DSM and TOM with a ground pixel size equivalent to

and Fig. 3), 3D worlds with façades from pseudo oblique

the resolution of the digital aerial photos.

images, and 3D worlds with façades from terrestrial images (see Fig. 4). 3D worlds with this level of resolution give a

3D Worlds for the Bundeswehr

Image data with a ground pixel size of 15 cm were generated

very realistic impression. The first users of this technology,

using a standard digital air cartographic camera (Vexcel

particularly those working in operational simulation, have

Ultracam). The overlap was 80% in flight direction and 80%

already discovered how valuable such data are.

perpendicular to the flight direction. Theoretically, every point on the ground in the area concerned is displayed in The better the military are informed about their area of

One objective of the “3D Worlds” project has been to fully

12 images (see Fig. 1). Nearly 4300 images (ground pixel

operations, the quicker they are able to make decisions.

exploit the automated processing of 3D reconstruction as

size of 15 cm) were taken over a military training area in

The standard medium for providing information about

well as the extremely high resolution of digital aerial

Germany, covering a region of 16 km by 24 km. A highly

terrain and urban areas is a map. This requires a skilled

cartographic photos. The distinctive feature of this process

precise aerial triangulation was then performed on the basis

user who is able to translate the formal map symbols

is that every pixel of digital aerial photos is used to first

of these images.

mentally into a picture of the terrain. This process is

of all obtain a digital surface model (DSM). This DSM, in

made much easier if it is possible to visualise the terrain

turn, forms the basis for creating a True Orthophoto Mosaic

The triangulated images for the 3D reconstruction of the

directly as a virtual 3D world on a computer monitor.

(TOM). A TOM is a map-like portrayal of the Earth’s surface

photographed area were processed by automated means.

Thanks to the great developmental progress made in

in which all the influences of height differences in the area

The computation process was conducted on 64 workstations

this field over the last few years, the military are now

concerned are corrected for the cartographic representation

in a cluster, taking 17 days (24h computing time a day)

increasingly able to make use of this form of visualisation

on a reference plane. Combination of the TOM and DSM

to obtain the results, namely a DSM, a TOM, and pseudo

using relatively simple technology.

by means of visualisation software then produces the 3D

oblique images of the building façades. The pixel spacing

worlds.

for these interim results is 15 cm. To explain this more clearly, in case of a ground resolution of 15 cm, the pixels

Photogrammetry is a special geodetic procedure for measuring

generated per square metre amount to 6.7 x 6.7 = 42.

the three-dimensional shape of objects, or of the Earth’s

In a parallel project involving a ground resolution of

surface, on the basis of their photographs. High-quality

5 cm, the pixels generated per square metre amounted to

digital matrix air cartographic cameras are used in aerial

20 x 20 = 400.

photogrammetry. Generating a DSM from the digital photos

Fig. 1: The footprints of the aerial photos illustrate that the centre of the Bonnland urban combat facility is displayed by means of 12 different photos

is very work-intensive and often done manually. In the

Interactive visualisations of 3D worlds based on such large

project described here, automatic 3D reconstruction software

data sets are possible by means of COTS workstations, PC

Fig. 2: View in the direction of Hammelburg into the 3D world with curtain façades

Fig. 3: View into a limestone quarry; 3D world with curtain façades/steep faces

Fig. 4: Comparison of 3D world with terrestrial image

Research Activities 2008

48 Dr. Heinz-Volker Fiekas Forschungsanstalt der Bundeswehr für Wasserschall und Geophysik, Kiel [email protected]

49 operating submarines displace water like surface ships and

Measurement data from a test cruise during which the

enduringly disrupt the oceanic stratification by means of

towing behaviour was examined under real operational and

their turbulent wake.

ambient conditions show that turbulence measurements with the aid of this towed system are possible with the

Underwater Sensor Platform for Rapid Assessment of Hydrodynamic Signatures and Turbulent Processes in Oceans

To have reliable information on the spatial coherence of the

required accuracy despite disturbing vibrations caused by

stratification’s variability and on the development of turbulent

vortex shedding on the hull, protection guard and towing

wakes, it is necessary to do a rapid, high-resolution survey

cable. In combination with a vertically profiling turbulence

of the ambient conditions over major distances, down to the

probe deployed simultaneously from the same ship, the

smallest scales, before any noteworthy changes occur along

new system will in future allow the measurement of

the surveyed route. For this purpose an underwater vehicle is

oceanic turbulence and microstructures down to a depth

currently being developed by ISW Wassermesstechnik (ISW)

of 200 m with a high vertical and horizontal resolution.

For some years now, micro-scale oceanic turbulence

Oceanic sound propagation is influenced essentially by the

on behalf of, and in consultation with, the Bundeswehr

has increasingly been the focus of military scientific

spatial and temporal variability of the thermal and saline

Institute for Underwater Sound and Geophysical Research

research concerning hydrodynamically induced signatu-

stratification in the ocean. The development of new,

(FWG) as a platform for a microstructure profiler within

res of submerged submarines, as well as underwater

sophisticated methods of detection and communication under

the scope of a German R&T contract. Only a handful of

communication. Within the framework of an R&T

water calls for enhanced knowledge of the environmental

such vehicles exist worldwide. They are one-off solutions,

project, a towed underwater vehicle is being developed

parameters affecting sound propagation conditions in the

developed by individual research institutes, that are not

as a platform for a microstructure profiler as a rapid,

ocean. The small-scale variability of sound velocity, which

usually available on the market.

high-resolution means of measuring such turbulence.

is describable only statistically and depends on temperature, salinity and pressure, has an influence on sound scattering,

The TIMOS (Towed Instrument for Microstructure Ocean

especially for high acoustical frequencies. The turbulent

Soundings) prototype is the product of close cooperation

oceanic processes and their spatial and temporal distribution

between ISW and the FWG. Equipped with high-resolution

are responsible for this statistical component of the sound

microstructure and turbulence sensors, standard sensors

velocity variations.

forming a classic temperature / salinity probe, as well as sensors needed to control alignment, stability and vibrations,

Knowledge of ocean turbulence is essential, not only for

the system is designed to be towed from a moving vessel.

understanding sound propagation, but also with regard to

Unlike established free-falling turbulence probes which

the non-acoustic signatures of hydrodynamically generated

measure vertical profiles of the turbulence and thermal

wake phenomena. Wakes of surface ships are visible traces

microstructure on the way down, TIMOS yields horizontal

that nowadays can be detected on the ocean surface without

turbulence profiles and spectra from selected depths along

any problem over a prolonged period by means of modern,

the towing track.

satellite-borne remote sensing techniques. Submerged

Fig. 1: Recovery of the TIMOS experimental towed body. The turbulence sensors are installed at the front in the bow (on the right-hand side), an acoustical current profiler is installed behind the sail, and an altimeter as well as an electromagnetic current meter are accommodated in the keel

Fig. 2: Deployment of a freefalling, vertically profiling turbulence probe on station

Fig. 3: Microstructure and turbulence sensor configuration, protected by a guard. Equipment is similar to that of a freefalling turbulence probe

Fig. 4: Parallel deployment of TIMOS and a freefalling turbulence probe from a moving vessel during an experiment involving a submerged submarine

Research Activities 2008

50

51

Dipl.-Ing. Corinna Schache Geschäftsfeld B-Detektion Wehrwissenschaftliches Institut für Schutztechnologien – ABCSchutz, Munster

Dr. Klaus A. Feller Geschäftsfeld B-Detektion Wehrwissenschaftliches Institut für Schutztechnologien – ABCSchutz, Munster

they however indicated a positive potential for development.

offered with it as a ready-to-use product (so-called “chip

Improved prototypes were delivered to the WIS for further

stick”) for field applications (Fig. 5). After several years in

experimental evaluation in June and December 2005. The

which the array chips had suffered from problems affecting

[email protected]

[email protected]

chip technology was subsequently optimised several times

the production technology and spotting process, it was

over through an intensive exchange of scientific and technical

possible for the first time in 2007 to present array chips

information. The current version of the automatic electrical

in a quality that fulfilled the requirements formulated by

microchip array immunodetector (Fig. 1), measuring 15 x

the WIS regarding military use of the ePaTOX detector.

33 x 21 cm and weighing 3 kg, operates with gold-printed

Following diverse laboratory evaluations, the acquisition

silicon array chips, whose 16 measurement positions can

of two ePaTOX detectors including suitable equipment

be coated with antibodies for identifying and binding

and consumables for the Special Reaction Forces of the

bioweapons agents (Fig. 2). The analysis data are evaluated

Bundeswehr NBC Defence Corps was initiated in August

Immunology-based Microchip Array Immunodetector for the Rapid Detection of Toxins in the Field

Microchip technology combined with immunology-based

To rapidly detect and identify biological warfare agents

and presented graphically on an external PC using special

2008. It is currently being examined whether there is any

analyte recognition offers a good basis for detecting

(bacteria, viruses, toxins) in the field, military NBC

software (Figs. 3 and 4).

demand for the ePaTOX in other areas of the Bundeswehr,

biological warfare agents. From the initial R&T activities

protection units urgently require automated technologies

at the Bundeswehr Research Institute for Protective

that have the highest possible sensitivity and yield reliable

Using this detector and antibody-coated microchips from

Technologies and NBC Protection (WIS) in Munster,

results within minutes. As bioweapons agents constitute a

eBS, diverse assays have been designed, tested and optimised

through to its adoption by the Special Reaction Forces

significant terrorist threat potential, civil institutions of the

to rapidly detect toxins that are of prime relevance militarily

of the German Bundeswehr, a portable technology

homeland security services (such as police, civil protection,

as well as from the viewpoint of bioterrorists. These efforts

for rapidly detecting bioweapon toxins in the field is

fire services, etc.) are in need of such rapid detectors as

have meanwhile led to the development of a so-called

described in the following.

well. Despite scientific and technical efforts worldwide,

“multiplex toxin assay” for the parallel detection of five

no technology that suitably fulfils the above-mentioned

toxins in one sample. The lower limit of detection in aqueous

requirements for a fieldable, rapid toxin detector has been

samples is approximately equivalent to that of established

available – until recently.

laboratory techniques. The time currently required to finish

such as the German Navy.

the multiplex toxin assay is 23 minutes. As has been In 2003, a laboratory prototype of an electrical microchip

established in experiments so far, the presence of certain

array immunodetector developed by the Fraunhofer Institute

interfering matrix constituents in the sample apparently has

for Silicon Technology (ISIT) in Itzehoe, Germany, was made

only a minor inhibiting influence on the detection process.

available free of charge to the WIS for initial laboratory

Fig. 1: Preparing a measurement run involving the ePaTOX

testing and evaluation by a consortium comprising Diehl

The electrical microchip array immunodetector has

BGT Defence, Fraunhofer ISIT and its associated company

meanwhile been commercialised by AJ eBiochip under

eBiochip Systems (eBS). Although those tests showed that

the trade name ePaTOX. The multi-toxin chip realised

version of the rapid toxin detector to be not yet fieldable,

with the financial and scientific support of the WIS is also

Fig. 2: Silicon array chip

Fig. 3: Data presentation (curves)

Fig. 4: Data presentation (slope values)

Fig. 5: Ready-to-use chip stick

Research Activities 2008

52

53

Staatl. gepr. Lebensmittelchemikerin Waltraud Uedelhoven Wehrwissenschaftliches Institut für Werk- und Betriebsstoffe, Erding

Prof. Dr. Michael Faulde Zentrales Institut des Sanitätsdienstes der Bundeswehr Laborgruppe Medizinische Entomologie/Zoologie, Koblenz

Oberfeldarzt Jeannot Andreas Zimmer Institut für den Medizinischen Arbeits- und Umweltschutz der Bundeswehr, Berlin

[email protected]

[email protected]

andreas2zimmer@ bundeswehr.org

Vector-protective Finish for Clothing – Helping to Protect Military Personnel from Infectious Diseases during Deployments Abroad

Oberstarzt Dr. Klaus Mross Sanitätskommando II, Diez klausgerhardmross@ bundeswehr.org

(Department of Medical Entomology / Zoology), Koblenz

The exposure of the military personnel to permethrin in

(ZInstSanBw KOB), has compared different impregnation

connection with vector-protective impregnation also has

techniques with regard to applied permethrin concentration,

to be taken into account, therefore. To be able to make

its washproof properties and bioactivity. The cross-

a sound assessment of any potential health risks, the

contamination of originally permethrin-free fabrics by

dermal absorption of permethrin when wearing suitably

The deployment of the Bundeswehr worldwide as part

Because of the Bundeswehr new range of responsibilities,

impregnated garments during laundering and storage and the

impregnated clothing was determined (biomonitoring)

of its new mission spectrum makes it necessary to

missions are taking place increasingly in subtropical and

contamination of storage rooms have also been examined.

nationally and in-theatre by the Senior Medical Officer

protect its servicemen and women against vector-borne

tropical regions where military personnel come into contact

Found to be the best solution concerning all the considered

for Occupational Health, Bundeswehr Regional Medical

infectious diseases. As a means of personal protection,

with a completely new mix of pathogenic organisms.

parameters is a special impregnation of the fabric, factory-

Command II, in collaboration with the Johannes Gutenberg

a new and standardised technique for impregnating

Many of the infectious diseases occurring in these regions

applied during production. It is effective against vectors

University in Mainz.

clothing with permethrin has been optimised, evaluated

are transmitted by organisms such as mosquitoes, sandflies

throughout the life of the clothing, thus rendering further

and scientifically supported by biomonitoring.

and ticks, generally referred to as vectors. Some of the

impregnations unnecessary. This has not only been tested in

Based on the results obtained, the Federal Institute for Risk

vector-borne diseases can considerably compromise

the laboratory by quantification of the permethrin concen-

Assessment conducted a final risk estimate and concluded

operational readiness and even lead to death.

tration and bioactivity after 100 standardised launderings, but

that there is no indication of any damage to health caused by

also confirmed by examinations of clothing exhaustively

vector-protective Bundeswehr clothing when used properly.

worn in the field during deployment.

For reasons of occupational safety, however, use of per-

There is no precautional drug treatment or vaccination

methrin must be limited to cases in which there is increased

to counter many of the disease-causing agents, so that alternative preventive measures are required. Besides

Permethrin, according to the European ordinance on

risk of vector-borne infectious diseases. To validate the data

applying repellents to exposed skin, wearing long-sleeved

hazardous substances, is hazardous. Through its mode of

concerning permethrin uptake from wearing impregnated

shirts and long trousers and using impregnated mosquito

action effects occur primarily on skin (sensitising) and

clothing, the Bundeswehr Institute of Medical Occupational

nets, there is the option of wearing permethrin-impregnated

respiratory system. It has a low human toxicity and, only

and Environmental Safety (IMAUS) is conducting a sup-

clothing as additional protection against vector attacks.

if used improperly, causes adverse health effects on people.

porting human biomonitoring assessment in Afghanistan

There are, however, people who exhibit high sensitivity to

relating to different work areas.

The Bundeswehr Research Institute for Materials, Explosives,

permethrin and may therefore react particularly sensitively

Fuels and Lubricants (WIWEB), in collaboration with the

when exposed to it.

Central Institute of the Bundeswehr Medical Service

Fig. 1: Quantification of the permethrin concentration before and after up to 100 launderings; comparison between the manufacturer’s special impregnation (blue) and two immersion processes (black), specified content: 200 mg/m² (red)

Fig. 2: Stages of the sheep tick, Ixodes ricinus: from left to right: larva (twice), nymph, adult male, adult female

Fig. 3: Determination of the time required for 100% knockdown against yellow fever mosquitoes on tissue impregnated with permethrin in the manufacturer’s special process (blue) and the two immersion processes (black), before and after up to 100 launderings; the required minimum bioactivity is 71.5 ± 12 min (red)

Fig. 4: Test subjects in the camp filling out a questionnaire

Research Activities 2008

54

55

TRAR Peter Helbig Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Kraftfahrzeuge und Panzer, Trier

Previously, soldiers have had to carry up to 15 kg of battery

soldiers in the field recharging batteries for their mobile

weight in order to operate their electronic devices. The

devices, or for equipment in the field that has to operate

[email protected]

use of a Jenny fuel cell from Smart Fuel Cell AG (SFC)

remotely, undetectably and without operator intervention,

dramatically reduces this weight by up to 80%. A power

or for electrical devices on board military vehicles.

consumption of 25 watts during a 72-hour mission adds

Military generators, the usual solution in such scenarios,

up to a total power requirement of 1800 Wh. Eight primary

are relatively easy to detect, thermally and acoustically.

military batteries such as the BA5590 have been required

The FC 250 fuel cell system from SFC tested for these

in the past to provide that energy. As each battery weighs

applications operates silently and reliably and is user-

1.2 kg, a soldier would have to carry 9.6 kg to satisfy such

friendly. Mil-Standard 810 conformity is currently being

power needs. A Jenny fuel cell, in comparison, weighs 1.7 kg,

verified. If positive, scenarios featuring the use of this

plus 1.8 kg for 5 fuel cartridges weighing 360 g each, which

type of fuel cell as a power source for battery charging or integration in vehicles will become realisable.

Off-grid Power for Defence Applications – Portable and Mobile Fuel Cell Systems in the Low-to-medium Power Range

Supplying electrical power to military personnel and

The number of electrical devices carried by soldiers and, in

adds up to a total of just 3.5 kg. This is equivalent to a weight

unmanned or vehicle-based devices in the field is a

consequence, the need for an independent electrical energy

saving of 64%. Rechargeable batteries have even less

major technical challenge. The Bundeswehr is testing

supply with minimal additional volume and weight has

energy density, thus weighing more, and making the fuel

direct methanol fuel cells as a silent, weather- and

been growing steadily in the course of military equipment

cell even more attractive.

climate-independent power source for operational

modernisation. Fuel cells are power converters, meaning

scenarios. They are logistically easy to handle and

that all they need is a continuous supply of fuel, which

Reliable availability of power on board vehicles is of central

offer an extremely high energy density.

presents major advantages over batteries, especially on

importance for military personnel in the field. The power

lengthy missions. The fuel cells tested by the Bundeswehr

source has to be independent of the engine as well as

Technical Centre for Automotive and Armoured Vehicles

noiseless, ensure operation of the electrical equipment on

(WTD 41) supply a continuous nominal power ranging

board the vehicle, and serve as an off-grid field charger

from 25 to 250 W as a direct power source for electrical

when required. Independence from vehicle engines is more

consumers or for recharging secondary batteries.

important, as there are many instances when a vehicle engine cannot be used for battery charging, as the noise signature

All the power solutions presented here hybridise the fuel

might reveal a unit’s position. The Emily 65 W fuel cell

cell, fuel cartridge and rechargeable battery. This offers

system from SFC has been tested for this application. Its

decisive logistical advantages. When solely using batteries, a

use significantly increases the mission time in silent watch

soldier would have to regularly interrupt his or her mission

mode, as the vehicle batteries are continuously recharged

in order to recharge or replace them. Having a fuel cell that

from the fuel cell.

provides uninterrupted battery power makes it possible to carry on without interruption.

During military missions it is often necessary to supply electrical power at the most unlikely places, be it for

Fuel Cell + Battery

EFOY Fuel Cartridge EFOY Pro Series

Fig. 1: Jenny fuel cell in hybrid operation with fuel cartridge and battery as an offgrid power source for a Toughbook®

Fig. 2: Emily before integration into the ‘Mungo’

Fig. 3: Emily integrated in the ‘Mungo’

Fig. 4: 250 W fuel cell system connected to a charger for “Infantryman of the Future” system batteries

Battery

Consumer

Fig. 5: Functional principle of hybrid operation. The depicted fuel cell is an EFOY Pro (i.e. industrial, not military version)

Research Activities 2008

56 BOR Georg Schulz Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Pionier- und Truppengerät, Koblenz [email protected]

Mobile Lightweight Bridges

57 Studies being undertaken by the Bundeswehr Technical

sonic impedance) for conventional ultrasound systems,

Centre for Engineer and General Field Equipment (WTD 51)

showing up as strong clutter. The phased array method

at present are focused primarily on bridges of fibre composite

provides a pictorial image of the material’s internal

design. The aim is to make use particularly of the high

structure. The strong correlation of echoes from closely

specific strength levels of these aviation-type materials as

localised, topologically cohesive regions yields a much

well as of new mobile bridge design concepts for the forces

greater accumulation of information. This method appears

on operations. WTD 51 has tested two prototypes for this

suitable for testing CFRP. But the theoretical wave motion

purpose, a bridge made of CFRP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced

models from recent years show that complex wave conver-

Plastic) for MLC 12 (STANAG 2021), and a bridge in

sions and various dispersion effects can lead to unusual

GFRP (Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic) design for MLC 35.

images of the material interior. This needs to be remedied

There is still an amount of basic research to be done in this

through further research.

To use lightweight military bridges in far-off countries,

The deployment of the Bundeswehr in remote theatres of

field before this new technology can be adopted. Because

it is necessary for them to be easy to handle without

operations where threats and topography are different in

of the failure behaviour, difficult non-destructive testing

Adapted FE modelling has to precede any use of FRP so

any sophisticated tools, to be deployable within the

comparison with Europe is leading to new military bridging

and problematic repair, reservations exist regarding the

that the feared progressive failure of sandwich laminates can

shortest possible time, and to have structural elements

requirements, the most important of them being the dead

application of FRP in heavily loaded supporting structures.

be precluded through design-related measures as early as

with the highest possible specific strength level. These

weight of the bridges. The bridging equipment has to be

mission-relevant criteria are validated and assured at

transportable by aerial vehicle, in some cases perhaps also

It has been possible to test critical points of hitherto used

have been extended for this purpose at WTD 51. Failure

the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Engineer and

as an underslung load. In cooperation with the Bundeswehr

assault bridges, such as the folding dry-gap bridge or folding

modes of sandwich materials can be determined realistically

General Field Equipment (WTD 51) in Koblenz for

Technical and Airworthiness Centre for Aircraft (WTD 61),

float bridge, with the aid of dye penetrant, magnetic particle

using the ABAQUS™ simulation tool. Well-known failure

every bridge in use, drawing upon the latest scientific

three mobile lightweight bridges for MLC 12 were lifted

or also conservative ultrasonic methods, and thereby

and damage criteria are used for behaviour prediction

knowledge. There, new design concepts for lightweight

as underslung loads by a CH-53 helicopter and set down

determine and verify a certain maximum flaw size for the

and are corrected (calibrated) on the basis of real data in

bridges constructible from fibre composite materials

on a tract of terrain with a view to studying bridge trans-

fracture-mechanical concept of the structures. Conventional

the course of the tests. The FE tool provides the unique

are being tested for their military suitability, and

portability. Such a manoeuvre places extreme demands

metals, such as steel or wrought aluminium alloys, generally

possibility to combine, in one step, rigid body motion

simulation models calibrated on the basis of the latest

on the aeroelasticity of the helicopter and on the abilities

exhibit very homogenous and isotropic mechanical behaviour

(kinematics) and quasi-static deformation during a crossing,

experimental data.

of the pilot. To achieve a minimum target signature, it is

with an additional “inherent safeguard”, that of plastic

for which it uses the Lagrange multiplier method as an

necessary to minimise the length of the lifting gear. During

strengthening. GFRP and CFRP, however, behave mainly

integral part of ABAQUS™.

the experiments this also led to a chaotic, multi-body

viscoelastically.

the planning phase. The know–how and the software base

motion due to the ‘down-wash’ effect of the helicopter in combination with the swivel-mounted lifting gear. The

An ultrasonic phased array (US-PA) method has been used

main outcome of the study is that transporting bridges as

to see whether it is a reliable and suitable means for testing

underslung loads can be considered a realistic possibility.

CFRP non-destructively. Every fibre embedded in the resin matrix constitutes an inhomogeneity (in fact, a jump in

Fig. 1: CFRP bridge for MLC 12

Fig. 2: Insertion of decking plates into the girder of the GFRP bridge for MLC 35

Fig. 3: Bridge as an underslung load

Fig. 4: Model of the GFRP bridge with displacement and 40t load iaw STANAG 2021

Research Activities 2008

58 TROI Michael Steyerer Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Schutz- und Sondertechnik, Oberjettenberg [email protected]

Development of Passive Protection Measures for the Storage of Military Ammunition during Missions

59 shell fragments and debris from the storage facility itself,

expertly implement the construction work needed in-theatre.

making very large safety distances necessary. These are

The Field Type Ammunition Magazine (FTAM), its newly

crucial parameters when specifying safety distances on the

developed door system and its design variants are, of

basis of hazard and risk analyses. Integrated verification with

course, explicitly described in the Handbook. Based on it,

regard to safety and operational requirements is assured

eight FTAM have already been erected by the German

by means of numerical virtual simulation and model- and

Bundeswehr in Kunduz, Afghanistan, as well as six

full-scale tests in cooperation with other agencies, technical

FTAM in the Feyzabad camp, and eight in Mazar-e-Sharif.

centres and institutes.

It demonstrates that the optimised and thoroughly tested storage solutions from WTD 52 are well-accepted by

As an example of the integrated verification process,

military requesting agencies in the field.

WTD 52 recently developed and certified a special door A key task of the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for

Nowadays, military activities and installations of the

system to be used with the established Field Type

WTD 52 will continue in future to push ahead with R&T

Protective and Special Technologies (WTD 52) in

Bundeswehr are no longer confined to the Federal Republic

Ammunition Magazine (FTAM). The door system is

activities as well as test and realise safety-optimised, opera-

Oberjettenberg is to ensure safe, state-of-the-art storage

of Germany. The Bundeswehr is committed to numerous

designed to provide effective blast venting in case of

tionally streamlined and economical solutions, so as to

of military ammunition in camps during Bundeswehr

international peacekeeping missions, such as in Kosovo

accidental detonations inside ammunition magazines.

ensure high, flexible and effective protection for personnel

missions abroad. While ammunition storage within

or Afghanistan. These diverse missions are placing new

The aim was to prevent any failure of the door even if

and infrastructure.

Germany is subject to detailed safety regulations and

demands on the military personnel, their hardware and

there are multiple subsequent detonations. The final

requirements, a risk-based approach for determining

the infrastructure used by them. It has had far-reaching

experimental certification of the developed door system

and evaluating storage scenarios is generally applied

consequences for WTD 52, which has been concentrating

was conducted under ‘worst case’ conditions by means

to deployments outside Germany.

its expertise on providing suitable, effective and economical

of full-scale tests in cooperation with the Bundeswehr

protection for camps and ammunition storage sites for more

Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91),

than a decade. Protecting soldiers in the field during a wide

Meppen.

variety of foreign missions continues to be the principal priority of WTD 52’s research and experimental verification

WTD 52 has also issued a comprehensive handbook on

efforts. Temporary, modular protection concepts, in particular,

passive protection measures for the storage of ammunition

are being developed and tested.

during missions. The handbook lists and thoroughly describes all the tested and certified ammunition storage

Fig. 1: Conceptual work of WTD 52: Field Type Ammunition Magazine (FTAM) with gabion systems, door system and earth cover

Given the extreme hazard potential posed by stored

solutions to be used by German troops in the field and is

ammunition, there is a special focus on developing suitable,

intended to help planners and decision makers adopt the

state-of-the-art ammunition storage facilities for use in the

best possible individual storage solution for a particular

field. Ammunition detonating accidentally produces a

scenario. Detailed design and construction plans and

rapidly expanding blast wave as well as highly hazardous

material requirements enable the user to correctly and

Fig. 2: Numerical simulation by WTD 52 – Field Type Ammunition Magazine (FTAM), built from steel-reinforced concrete, verification of structural integrity after detonation

Fig. 3: 1:5 model-scale detonation test at the Hirschwiese mountain test range of WTD 52 – Field Type Ammunition Magazine (FTAM) built of steel-reinforced concrete

Fig. 4 + 5: Full-scale detonation test at WTD 91. Left: High-speed photo sequence. Right: extent of damage to door system after 104 single detonations

Fig. 6: Practical implementation of the FTAM in Afghanistan (Mazar-e-Sharif camp)

Research Activities 2008

60 Dipl.-Ing. Josef Traxl Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Schiffe und Marinewaffen, Maritime Technologie und Forschung, Eckernförde [email protected]

Long-term Experimental Setup for Asymmetric Warfare (LEXXWAR)

61 Approaches to resolve this problem have to be comprehensive

offered by such an heterogeneous network and operating

and across-the-board technologically, taking into account all

system environment can hardly be overestimated. The

aspects at the system level. The main points of focus in this

cumulative processing power can therefore be made available

regard are multisensor data fusion, the coupling of real-time

to the relevant processes, as necessary, and operating

and non-real-time elements, and the scalability of standard

system boundaries also overcome more easily than in

solutions for outfitting / retrofitting the fleet. One other

other architectures. It is possible, for instance, to link

distinctive feature in need of intensified consideration is the

already existing, efficiently performing software, such as

24/7 threat situation, meaning that the required defensive

a geographical information system, directly to data from

system must be able to carry out the processes of detection,

an R&D activity, perhaps a new database model or an

classification and defence largely autonomously as controlled

innovative 3D presentation, to create a new, even better-

escalation. But particularly where defensive action is

performing application. This provides great flexibility as

The threat posed to the German Navy has changed

The new menace becomes manifest particularly in harbour

concerned, the decisions have to be made by humans, sup-

an R&D tool for research institutions, industry and, last

and grown significantly compared with the ‘classic’

approaches, during pilotage, and when at anchor or moored

ported by machines, and not be machine-made decisions.

but not least, the various Bundeswehr technical centres.

Cold War scenarios from the 1980s. Expeditionary

in harbours, in a way that forces the Navy to depart from

This also calls for new approaches in the design of man-

warfare and the emphasis on littoral operations mean

traditional behavioural patterns. What was hitherto a safe

machine interfaces.

that its ships and boats are exposed increasingly to a

harbour is now, potentially, no longer a safe haven, making

multidimensional threat of asymmetric/terrorist

it necessary to take protective measures at all levels and in

In order to carry out the R&D efficiently in the relevant

attacks. LEXXWAR has been created as a tool to

different forms (a port call for a warship actually makes

areas, the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Ships and Naval

develop new capabilities needed to counter these

sense only if the crew can recuperate and make any needed

Weapons, Maritime Technology and Research (WTD 71)

threats.

repairs undisturbed). Asymmetric threats denote attacks from

has, with the support of the Federal Office of Defence

the air, from above and below the water’s surface, as well as

Technology and Procurement (BWB S1.1), created the

from land using practically any imaginable means, thus

LEXXWAR demonstrator as a 'system of systems' which

necessitating the capability to ‘fight right up to the vessel’s

allows the testing of new sensors, weapons, technologies,

side’ and, hence, very short response times. They also take

procedures and methods around the world. A seaworthy

place within peace mission scenarios, often using civilian

double container accommodates three consoles and two

surroundings for cover and making target classification a

19-inch-standard cabinets housing the electronic gear for

central problem, with innocent victims possibly ensuing as

the extensive array of sensors mounted on the container

the final consequence. This very complex and problematical

roof as well as the weapons. An additional IT infrastructure

situation gives rise to the need to retrofit the Navy in various

which is to be run in parallel with the existing rudimentary

areas, with particular emphasis on command, control,

command and control system is in the pipeline. This will

information, and weapons control system capabilities, and

essentially be based on virtual machines running on the

therefore to a large need for R&D.

existing computer hardware. The capabilities and potential

Fig. 2: The system was installed for HPT 08 on board one of WTD 71’s multi-purpose vessels to demonstrate the role as a harbour protection boat

Fig. 3: This photo of the container’s interior clearly shows the importance of imaging sensors and a man-machine interface in the context of asymmetric warfare. Situational awareness is generally the key to success

Consoles (30“ TFT and computer) SMG .50

WLAN wireless modem Ethernet, TCP/IP

Infrared panorama 180O segment

MSP 500

Diver detection sonar

X-band radar

Fig. 1: LEXXWAR system overview delineating the main components that can be complemented, as required, for special R&D purposes. During the NATO HARBOUR PROTECTION TRIALS 2008 (HPT08), an anti-air radar was networked ad-hoc

Fig. 4: Above-water sensor suite, panoramic infrared device for surveillance, multi-sensor platform including laser range finder for verification, and radar to provide classic all-weather backup capability

Research Activities 2008

62 Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Fabian Eisenberger Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Informationstechnologie und Elektronik, Greding

Dipl.-Geophys. Ralf Eck Fraunhofer-Institut für Informations- und Datenverarbeitung, Karlsruhe

[email protected]

[email protected]

Digital Map and Situation Table: Future Workbench for Analysis and Sensor Management in Imaging Reconnaissance

63 display attached vertically behind it. The special feature

the NATO CD&E exercise COMMON SHIELD in

of this multidisplay approach is a third type of display, the

August 2008. WTD 81 was in charge of the national

so-called Fovea-Tablett® patented by the Fraunhofer IITB,

“Support Systems” sub-working group for that Technical

which is a tablet PC in the size of a writing pad. It is

Demonstration and contributed, among other things,

positioned on the large table display, where it functions as a

expertise from the fields of reconnaissance technology

“magic lens” and provides a direct view onto the underlying

and network centric operations. As part of the

image, but with a much higher resolution (pixel density)

“Experimental Platform for Reconnaissance Picture

than is possible with commercially available and affordable

Interpretation” project, a DigLT has been set up at the

large-screen displays. The Fovea-Tablett® can be moved

Strategic Reconnaissance Command in Gelsdorf, where

freely over the table. It is localised relatively to the table

it is being used for operationally related experiments

display in real time and receives, online, the section of the

under the supervision of WTD 81.

The Digital Map and Situation Table with Fovea-Tablett®

In future, image analysts working in imaging reconnaissance

image covered by the tablet on the table display. Using a

is an innovative display workstation concept developed

will increasingly become managers of multi-sensor systems

touch pen the operator can interact with the display software

by the Fraunhofer Institute for Information and Data

that deliver real-time data via an information network of

and, for example, choose a different visualisation mode to

Processing (IITB) for collaborative work using large

different air- and space-borne platforms. Image analysts will

the overview display selected on the table.

computer displays. It has been developed for imaging

have to select the most appropriate sensors, check their

reconnaissance applications mainly, on behalf of the

availability, perhaps also adjust their orientation and, finally,

The advantage of using the DigLT system in imaging

Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Information Technolo-

analyse the data. Integrating all the functions necessary for

reconnaissance is that a team of image analysts are shown

gy and Electronics (WTD 81) as part of a research and

this on a simple monitor screen would lead to a very dense

the map of the terrain in question with a low but completely

technology project designated “Experimental Platform

and confusing user interface, even when arranging several

sufficient pixel density, and that the image analysts can,

for Reconnaissance Image Interpretation” and featured

screens side by side.

together or individually, analyse the main areas of interest based on high-resolution images with the aid of the Fovea-

during the NATO CD&E exercise COMMON SHIELD in 2008.

WTD 81, while searching for a suitable workstation concept

Tablett®. Information which is required but not to be

for future networked imaging reconnaissance, took up the

displayed in the overview map for ergonomic reasons can

idea of the “Digital Map and Situation Table” (DigLT) a

be visualised in the vertical panel display via the Fovea-

multi-display workspace developed at the Fraunhofer IITB

Tablett®. This can include tables, texts and also video

in Karlsruhe and commissioned its advancement as part of

images from oblique-vision cameras that are not to be

the research and technology project designated “Experimental

projected into the map because of the resulting image

Platform for Reconnaissance Image Interpretation”. This

distortions.

concept, developed on the Fraunhofer Institute’s own

Fig. 1: Resolution gain through the Fovea-Tablett® and interaction via touch pen

initiative for civilian disaster management, is based on the

The performance and functionality of the DigLT was verified

combination of a large horizontal table display and a panel

experimentally as part of a Technical Demonstration during

Fig. 2: Use of the DigLT during COMMON SHIELD at the Ops Centre for Camp Protection

Fig. 3: Setup of the Digital Map and Situation Table with horizontal and vertical display and two Fovea-Tabletts®

Fig. 4: Coded markers placed on the backplane for tracking the Fovea-Tablett®

Research Activities 2008

64 Klaus Schilling Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Waffen und Munition, Meppen

65

Dr. Winfried Kalz Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Waffen und Munition, Meppen

Hans-Jürgen Fahl Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Waffen und Munition, Meppen

Dr. Michael Bertschik Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Waffen und Munition, Meppen

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Validation of Explosive Fume Dynamics in Rooms

Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen is to numerically

To validate these fume dynamics, a test room equipped with

simulate the effect of SIBEX explosives for different

different measuring sensors has been set up. High-speed

mission scenarios in future. A new approach to clarifying

heat flow sensors have also been used in the test room for the

the SIBEX phenomena has been selected, and roughly the

first time, in cooperation with the Franco-German Research

first 10 ms after a detonation found to be of crucial

Institute Saint-Louis (ISL).

On missions abroad, soldiers often face threats and

Flexible response charges containing special explosive

importance. Open-air detonation tests show the pressure

attacks in urban environments. Their response to such

mixtures are seen as a possibility for soldiers to respond

curves of classic, SIBEX and thermobaric explosives to

Further basic experiments in the urban module will

threats and attacks needs to be proportionate. Neither

proportionately to threats and attacks. These are SIBEX

behave similarly during this time window.

subsequently focus on determining the beginning of the

the Russian-type bombs from 2007 nor the American

explosives (Shock Insensitive Blast Enhanced Explosives).

type from 2003, which are based essentially on the old

SIBEX consists of plastic-bonded conventional explosive

The unusual quality of the fumes dynamics after detonations

explosives and on the influence of turbulence effects in

principle of the Zippermayr bomb from the Second

including metal particles (such as aluminium, boron, silicon,

in closed rooms has been discovered for the first time within

rooms with different atmospheres (air and argon).

World War, are suitable for that purpose however. There

titanium, tungsten, zircon). They differ from thermobaric

the framework of extensive numerical simulations involving

is rather a need for proportionable, switchable and

charges in that they contain no liquid components of any

the well-known explosive TNT (trinitrotoluene). The fume

Initial theoretical approaches to the SIBEX effects reveal

directed charges so as to minimise undesirable effects.

kind (which are more like Fuel Air Explosives (FAE) in

dynamics are based essentially on the primarily generated

that, during detonations in rooms, there are complex inter-

Data from numerical simulations are playing a major

their reaction). The influence of metal components,

shock wave being reflected in rooms by walls, floor and

actions of different factors characterising the shock wave

role in understanding the basic mechanisms of such

particularly aluminium, in underwater explosives has been

ceiling and interacting again with the slower propagation

physics and fumes physics which can be properly replicated

flexible response charges in rooms.

known since as long ago as 1899 thanks to Escales. A kind

process of the explosive fumes. The fumes are even “pressed”

only on the relevant original scale. This means that

of post-reaction of the metalliferous explosive fumes, also

or “centred” toward the middle of the room regardless of their

explosions of SIBEX explosives in the open air cannot, in

referred to as “afterburn effect”, takes place with the

place of origin, i.e. the fumes are initially in the middle of

principle, be compared to SIBEX explosions in rooms, nor

atmospheric oxygen. Until today, though, there has not

the room after roughly the first 10 ms even after detonations

SIBEX explosions on a laboratory scale be extrapolated on

been any complete mathematical description and numerical

in front of open doors and windows in the room. This

the original scale. The TNT equivalency estimated for SIBEX

simulation of the physical and chemical processes that occur

discovery is of very fundamental importance for further

explosives would not then have any clear representative

during the detonation of SIBEX explosives.

understanding the afterburn effects occurring with SIBEX

value, either, because substance-independent values such as

explosives.

ambient geometry have an influence on the development of

afterburn reaction for aluminium-containing SIBEX

the explosive effect.

The objective of the SIBEX research and technology project at the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Weapons and

Shock wave generation

p(t)

Detonation of explosive(s) Fume generation (with “afterburn“ effect)

Geometry of surroundings / reflections

Fig. 1: Pressure und fume propagation from a 3 kg TNT sphere in a room corner (room is 4.8 m long, 3.84 m wide, 3.9 m high, with a volume of approx. 72 m³)

Fig. 2: Basic reaction schematic for SIBEX explosives including feedback of pressure reflections as a variable influencing the afterburn process of explosive fumes

Fig. 3: Transparent 3D representation of the new urban module in Meppen. Windows and doors facing the outside are marked in red

Fig. 4: Setup of the pressure, temperature and high-speed heat flow gauges in the test room of the urban module in Meppen to validate the TNT fumes dynamic

Military Medical Research

2

Research Activities 2008

68 Oberfeldarzt Dr. Michael Schmitz-Rode Institut für den Medizinischen Arbeits- und Umweltschutz der Bundeswehr, Berlin

Oberstarzt Wolfgang Hanschke Kommando 4. Luftwaffendivision, Aurich wolfgang1hanschke@ bundeswehr.org

michaelschmitzrode@ bundeswehr.org

Demonstration of the Effectiveness of a Hearing Protection Device against Impulse Noise caused by Hand Weapons

69 Normal to moderately loud sound events, such as speech or

performed directly on the firing range using the mobile

the approach of people, pass through this filter, which is

audiometry measuring bus of Bundeswehr Technical Centre

usually open, and reach the tympanic membrane and can

91, Meppen (Fig. 2).

thus be perceived. When the acoustic pressure increases, e.g. during the firing of a shot or the detonation of a mine,

It was possible to show in the tests that the Ear ISAF earplug

the filter closes due to the pressure wave accompanying the

with integrated ISL impulse noise filter can reduce the risk

sound event, thereby preventing any damage to the sensory

of bang trauma caused by weapon noise just as effectively

cells in the inner ear.

as the Ear Classic earplug used in the Bundeswehr up to now. None of the examined test persons suffered any hearing

The impulse noise hearing protection device has not been

damage during the firing tests, and the pure-tone audiometry

fielded with the Bundeswehr as yet because a CE marking

readings did not show any significant changes in the hearing

Because of the change in the Bundeswehr’s mission

Hearing protection is needed for military personnel on

is still to be assigned for this product, such that certified

curves prior to or after firing (Fig. 3). The two tested ear-

spectrum it is constantly necessary to adapt the service-

missions abroad that not only effectively safeguards against

proof of effectiveness as required by German standards is

plugs, however, behave much differently with regard to speech

men’s and women’s materiel and equipment to the new

impulse noise but also enables personnel to detect ambient

pending.

comprehension. The novel earplug with impulse noise filter

challenges. This also includes the need to improve their

sounds and comprehensibly communicate with one another.

protection against hearing damage caused by weapon

The Ear Classic II and Bilsom 303 earplugs, which are

In the present study commissioned as a special research

comprehension of military personnel using the Ear ISAF

and explosion noise. Described below is a novel hearing

currently in use with the Bundeswehr and were originally

project by the Central Medical Service Staff, FMOD, the

impulse noise hearing protection device was already more

protection device that has been tested and validated for

developed to protect against continuous noise exposure,

effectiveness of the impulse noise filter was examined in

than 90 % for a speech level of only 60 dB, whereas in the

its fitness for use with the Bundeswehr.

do not meet these requirements since the linear attenuation

firing tests using, as personal weapons, the P 8 pistol, G 36

control group using the previously introduced Ear Classic

of 28 and 33 dB, respectively, largely prevents acoustic

rifle and MG 3 machine gun. The question to be answered in

it was only 55 % (Fig. 4).

perception of ambient sounds. Because of this capability

this connection was whether the use of the impulse noise filter

gap, many personnel in-theatre do not wear any hearing

can reliably reduce the risk of the inner ear being damaged

The present study has thus been able to demonstrate that

protection at all so as to thus avoid dangers to life and limb,

by bang trauma. The aim was also to demonstrate that it

ambient sounds can be detected immediately and military

and thereby risk permanent hearing damage as serious as

allows better ambient sound detection and communication

personnel can communicate effectively among one another

deafness due to unexpected weapon or explosion noise.

than the devices so far used to protect hearing against

while also being protected against weapon and explosion

continuous noise.

noise. The novel hearing protection has been accepted on

is clearly superior to the previously used earplugs. Speech

The introduction of a so-called impulse noise hearing pro-

the basis of the study findings as an interim solution for The firing tests involved a total of 60 test persons. Pure-tone

use on the mission abroad in Afghanistan. Additional tests

gap for military personnel deployed on operations. The

audiometry to determine individual hearing curves and speech

to establish the maximum numbers of fired rounds allowed

Franco-German Research Institute Saint Louis (ISL) has

audiometry to check speech perception were conducted on

during training are on-going.

developed an impulse noise filter for this purpose which

each test day prior to the start of firing, directly after, and

has been incorporated into various earplugs (Fig. 1).

24 hours after firing. The audiometric examinations were

Mean values from the pure-tone audiometry

Mean values from speech perception

(n = 132 per group) Frequency [kHz]

(n = 132 per group)

Ear ISAF prior to firing Ear Classic prior to firing

Speech perception [%]

Hearing threshold [dB]

tection device in the Bundeswehr can close this capability

with Ear Classic with Ear ISAF without ear plugs

Ear ISAF after firing Ear Classic after firing

Volume [dB]

Fig. 1: Ear ISAF earplugs with ISL impulse noise filter

Fig. 2: Audiometry measuring bus of Bundeswehr Technical Centre 91

Fig. 3: Comparison of the mean values from the pure-tone audiometry prior to or after firing

Fig. 4: Comparison of speech comprehension without hearing protection, and with Ear Classic and Ear ISAF

Research Activities 2008

70 Oberfeldarzt Dr. Wolf Splettstößer Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr, München wolfsplettstoesser@ bundeswehr.org

71 clinically evaluate such assays (5, 6, 7), it is a time-

differential diagnosis. It should, additionally, facilitate the

consuming and expensive process. Assays are available for

later introduction of further, simplified and standardised

other agents (Q fever, brucellosis), but they are based on

assays based on this analysis method (14).

different formats (fluorescence assays, agglutination assays,

Development, Validation and Clinical Evaluation of Multiplex Assays for the Rapid Diagnosis of Rare Infectious Diseases

ELISA, immunoblots), cannot be standardised and are often

For the Brucella ssp., Bacillus anthracis, Francisella tularensis

inadequately evaluated clinically such that, for logistical

and Yersinia pestis bacteria the assays have yielded the

reasons, they are unsuitable for use in a field laboratory.

required values of over 90 % for sensitivity and specificity, respectively. This method is therefore suitable for routine

As an alternative to developing classic immunoassays for

diagnostics. The changeover to this method has not been

every single agent, the Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology

successful for the Coxiella burnetii pathogen, however. It

is engaged in establishing flow cytometry assays, which,

has not been possible to reproducibly couple the chemically

The objective of the described R&D project has been

The reorganisation of the German Bundeswehr, combined

by using microparticles as a solid phase, are superior to

undefined antigen (cell lysate) to the microspheres (beads).

to establish a diagnostic multiplex immunoassay for the

with a growing number of missions abroad, as well as a

conventional immunoassays in respect of sensitivity,

It has been possible, though, to demonstrate the basic fitness

detection of human antibodies, in serum or plasma,

growing risk of biological agents being used in military

specificity and performance time (8). One very essential and

of the multi-analyte method for the Orthopox, measles,

against the highly virulent pathogens that cause

conflicts or terroristic acts make it necessary to develop

unique advantage of this combined method, however, lies in

mumps, Varizella zoster and Hantavirus viral pathogens. A

anthrax, brucellosis, Q fever, tularemia, the plague and

and validate fast infection diagnosis methods that are also

the possibility to determine several parameters from one

clinical evaluation of the latter parameters is still pending.

hantavirus infection. The multiplex assay is based on

suitable for field use. Unlike technical biological protection

sample in one analysis step (“multiplexing”) (9, 10). The

In collaboration with an industrial partner the new multiplex

the simultaneous detection of antibodies for specific

it is mandatory, in the field of medical biological defence,

progress achieved in electronic data processing and the

assay is now being translated into a commercial diagnostic

antigens of as many as seven different biological agents

to provide assays for the serological detection of specific

introduction of uniform colour-coded microparticles have

kit that can then also be used in compliance with the in-vitro

from one single sample in a joint analysis step.

antibodies. While even today the diagnosis of many infectious

made it theoretically possible nowadays to simultaneously

diagnostics directive of the EU and German legislation on

diseases relies almost exclusively on the detection of specific

run as many as 100 different antibody tests from one serum

medical products.

antibodies (1, 2), it is often only antibodies and no longer

sample, for instance (11, 12).

(Literature references 1-14 are available from the author on

pathogen-specific antigens that are detectable in late stages

request)

of an acute infection (3). Later exclusion of any exposure

The work carried out so far at the Bundeswehr Institute of

to a biological agent can likewise be done only by means of

Microbiology has been able to demonstrate that detecting

serology. A specific, quantitative antibody assay is similarly

specific antibodies for tularemia, melioidosis and the plague

necessary for verifying the success of any vaccination (4).

is possible on the basis of the described assay principle (8, 13). By switching to a recently marketed system called

Serological assays are not commercially available for most

‘Luminex’, it is hoped that there will be extensive stan-

biologically relevant agents (anthrax, plague, tularemia,

dardisation and a further improvement in sensitivity and

glanders, melioidosis, smallpox, HF viruses). Although it

specificity when establishing new serological assays for

is, in principle, feasible to establish and, in particular,

B-relevant agents, as well as for pathogens important for

A

Fig. 1: The basic component of the multiplex assay is colour-encoded microparticles (left: shown in original size on a human hair). The particles, which are identifiable on the basis of their intrinsic fluorescence (fluorescence “barcode”), allow simultaneous analysis of up to one hundred parameters in one single step

Fig. 2: The analyses are performed in a small, compact benchtop instrument. The samples are prepared in microtiter format which, besides controls and standards, allows the simultaneous analysis of around 80 samples

B

C

D

Fig. 3: The fast, simultaneous analysis of antibody titers for different biological agents is a useful tool for rapidly confirming a clinical diagnosis. A correct laboratory diagnosis can be rapidly performed also for patients showing unspecific signs of infection (cutaneous phenomena: A. cutaneous anthrax; B. ulcero-glandular tualremia; C. plague pneumonia; D. mediastinitis after inhalation of anthrax spores)

Research Activities 2008

72

73

Major Dr. Markus Antwerpen Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr, München

countries where Bundeswehr forces are deployed, and

software. The thus calculated repeat codes are compared,

natural infection of Bundeswehr personnel cannot be ruled

with the aid of a database, with already known data relating

markusantwerpen@ bundeswehr.org

out. Forensic analysis at the molecular level as a means

to other B. anthracis strains. The database is continually

of differentiating from naturally occurring strains is

upgraded through an exchange of strains and data at national

indispensable, however, in order to identify any release

and international level. The establishment of this method

of B. anthracis as a bioterrorist or warfare agent.

enables the Bundeswehr Medical Service to provide a

Molecular Typing of the Causative Agent of Anthrax: A Contribution to Forensic Microbiology

thorough and reliable forensic analysis in the event of any The Institute’s “High-Security Lab and Special Diagnostics”

infection with Bacillus anthracis. The outcome of such

Division, in collaboration with scientists at national and

analyses can possibly have a major political impact, which

international level, has succeeded in developing such a

in turn will have repercussions for the assessment of

method and establishing it for routine application. The method

situations and the action taken in the Bundeswehr’s theatres of operations.

A database-assisted method for differentiating between

Anthrax is caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus

is based on the methodological principles of paternity

Bacillus anthracis strains has been established in

(B.) anthracis. Inhalation of airborne spores leads to

testing: It involves determining the length of 31 selected

collaboration with national and international research

pulmonary anthrax, which, if left untreated, is fatal in more

genomic markers of B. anthracis which are composed of

partners. In the event of an anthrax infection, this

than 90 percent of all cases. This pathogen was brought to

repetitive and very short DNA sequence motifs, or so-

forensic method makes it possible to determine whether

the public’s awareness in 2001 when a series of mailed

called tandem repeats. The number of these repeats, and

the pathogen has been released intentionally or has

anthrax-contaminated letters (so-called “Anthrax Letters”)

thus the length of the each marker, differs from strain to

occurred naturally.

caused ten persons in the USA to contract pulmonary

strain. The analysis of the 31 markers generates a strain-

anthrax, four of whom died. The suitability of B. anthracis

specific repeat code. The less common a particular repeat

as a biological warfare agent was well-known even before

code is when comparing different strains, the more distant

this incident, however, and was produced in large quantities

is the relationship between the investigated strains.

as part of bioweapons programmes. In 1979, an accident at a biological weapons plant in Svertlovsk, USSR, in which

This technically sophisticated procedure requires the

94 persons were infected with pulmonary anthrax and 64

desired gene segment of the bacterium to be labelled with

of them died, went largely unnoticed.

short fluorescent DNA fragments and to be amplified simultaneously by polymerase chain reaction. The obtained

Fig. 1: Cultivation of Bacillus anthracis on a blood agar plate

The mission of the Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology,

products are separated by means of capillary gel

besides the fast and reliable identification of pathogens

electrophoresis, and their lengths are determined by

used potentially as biological warfare agents, is to verify

comparison with a known standard. Based on the determined

for intentional release. Infection with B. anthracis is not

lengths it is then possible to calculate the number of repeats

necessarily indicative of a terrorist act, because the

occurring within the gene segment under consideration. The

pathogen is endemic throughout the world, including those

analysis takes place semi-automatically using programmed

Fig. 2: Preparation of DNA

Fig. 3: Typing of the extracted DNA by length determination using capillary gel electrophoresis

Research Activities 2008

74

75

Oberstabsarzt Dr. Dirk Steinritz Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie der Bundeswehr, München

Oberstabsapotheker Dr. Frank Balszuweit Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie der Bundeswehr, München

Until recently, on-site detection of sulphur mustard required

Although detection of airborne sulphur mustard is not the

fairly complex analytical methods and equipment which

primary purpose of the described detector, an additional

normally are available only to specialised (NBC defence)

test to document its sensitivity was conducted in which a

[email protected]

[email protected]

personnel. This equipment is, also, so sensitive that it

test strip was fixed to the outside of a soldier’s protective

cannot be deployed in the field. The intention has therefore

suit (Fig. 4) before the soldier reconnoitred an artificial

been to develop a simple-to-handle, yet highly sensitive

cave contaminated by SM vapours. Again, a positive test

field-usable test for the rapid detection of SM.

result was recorded.

SM, due to its chemical properties, reacts with nucleophile

The Bundeswehr Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology

structures including elements of DNA, in particular guanine.

has, in other words, a field-usable rapid detection method

This project has thus focused on a specific and highly

at its disposal that reliably detects the presence of sulphur

Development and Validation of an On-site Immunochromatographic Rapid Detection Method for Sulphur Mustard

Sulphur mustard (SM) is a chemical warfare agent

Sulphur mustard was first synthesised in the 19th century

sensitive method for detecting the predominant DNA-SM

mustard. Further development work will be aimed at

used on repeated occasions in the 20th century. Clinical

and first used in July 1917 as a chemical warfare agent by

adduct. Initial laboratory trials involved immunofluorescent

optimising the handling of the test strip.

symptoms appear only after a latency period. The

German armed forces during WWI. Further uses followed in

staining of this adduct (Fig. 1). In a next step, conducted

Bundeswehr Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology

the course of the 20th century, up to the Iraq-Iran conflict

in cooperation with an enterprise called Securetec, an

has developed a test that is quick, specific and highly

from 1980 to 1988. There are suspicions that some countries

immunochromatographic test strip was developed (Fig. 2)

sensitive for detecting unbound SM on skin. Prototypes

still keep stockpiles of this agent among their weaponry.

which comprises a filter membrane spiked with nucleotides.

of a test strip have been intensively validated for

Risks are also posed by barrels of SM dumped at sea which

The test substance (analyte) that possibly contains SM is

functionality and usability and found to be compliant

are corroding with time and releasing largely undegraded

applied in a sampling window (at one end of the strip). The

with all the requirements.

agent. Additionally, there has been evidence of terrorist

strip also bears the reagents necessary for adduct detection.

organisations trying to obtain chemical warfare agents, of

A buffer solution carries the nucleotides toward the analyte

which sulphur mustard is one of easiest to synthesise.

and reagents. A coloured band becomes visible if SM is present (Fig. 3).

Clinical symptoms indicative of SM exposure appear only after latency period, which is dependent on the exposure

The functionality and handling of the strips were extensively

dose and may vary from hours to days. Rapid detection of

tested during a NATO exercise. In one instance the strip

any SM contamination is therefore of the utmost importance

was used to test SM-contaminated pig skin. The sampling

because, if the reaction is positive, it is possible to warn

was done by holding the strip near to the contaminated

medical personnel at an early stage and avoid further

skin, without touching it (so-called “no touch” technique),

exposure. Potentially exposed persons can be swiftly

to minimise matrix effects. A positive result was obtained.

decontaminated, monitored prior to the onset of symptoms, and receive optimum treatment from the outset.

A

B

C Unbound sulphur mustard Buffer solution

Nucleotides Sulphur mustard DNA SM adduct antibody Secondary detection antibody

Fig. 1: A: Immunfluorescence staining of sulphur-mustard/DNA adduct B: Staining of cell nuclei C: Combined images A and B

Fig. 2: Schematic reaction principle of the sulphur mustard test strip

Fig. 3: The coloured band indicates positive detection of sulphur mustard

Fig. 4: Preparation for the cave reconnaissance scenario; sulphur mustard test strips on the outside of NBC protective clothing

Research Activities 2008

76 Oberstabsarzt Dr. Armin Riecke Institut für Radiobiologie der Bundeswehr in Verbindung mit der Universität Ulm, München

Oberstabsarzt Dr. Christian G. Ruf Institut für Radiobiologie der Bundeswehr in Verbindung mit der Universität Ulm, München christianguidoadolfruf@ bundeswehr.org

[email protected]

77 genes: GADD45, CDKN1A, DDB2, PCNA, BAX and ATF3. 18S-rRNA served as an endogenous control. Dose reconstruction was performed using a multiple, linear regression model based on ∆CT values. Results: The six investigated genes exhibit differing

RTQ-PCR-based Biodosimetry of Lymphocyte Subsets

regulation in PMNC (peripheral mononuclear cells) and CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocytes (Fig. 1). In four of the six genes, induction was most pronounced in CD4+ T lymphocytes. Using a multiple linear regression model for all 6 genes it was possible to show a linear dose response

Ionising radiation induces changes in the expression

Background: The triage of radiation victims represents a

curve between 0 Gy and 1 Gy for CD4+ T lymphocytes

of radiosensitive genes in lymphocyte subsets. By using

major challenge in the management of radiation accidents.

and PMNC (Fig. 2). Complete discrimination between the

quantitative RT-PCR (RTQ-PCR) to measure the

There is currently a lack of methods for quickly confirming

sham irradiated control and the samples irradiated with

transcripts from six genes involved in the radiation

exposure to ionising radiation, especially in a mass casualty

0.1 Gy was possible when using both the PMNC and the

response of human lymphocytes, it has been possible

situation. RTQ-PCR-based measurement of radiosensitive

CD4+ T lymphocytes (Fig. 3 and 4).

to demonstrate a linear dose response of up to 1 Gy.

genes is a method that well meets these requirements.

The gene expression data allow complete discrimination

Cellular response to ionising radiation differs between

Conclusion: RTQ-PCR qualifies for biodosimetric use

between samples irradiated with 0.1 Gy and non-

the individual lymphocyte subsets. The aim of the current

in an in vitro model system. Given the possibility of

irradiated control samples.

study has been to identify differences in the radiation

automation and suitability as a high-throughput analysis

response of lymphocyte subsets at the gene expression

method, it constitutes a promising option for biodosimetric

level and their impact on using RTQ-PCR for biodosimetric

applications in medical nuclear protection.

purposes. Method: Peripheral blood was taken from healthy volunteers. The lymphocytes were accumulated using immunodensity separation (“lymphocyte enrichment cocktail”), then exposed to ionising radiation (X-rays, 240 kV, 1 Gy/min, 0-1 Gy) and cultured in RPMI 1640 medium containing 10 % autologous serum. The lymphocyte subsets were isolated after 24 and 48h. After RNA isolation and cDNA synthesis, RTQ-PCR was carried out for the following

Gene

Fig. 1: Regulation of genes in the different lymphocyte subsets. Results of the RTQ-PCR analysis of CD4+ (n=7), CD8+ (n=5) and PMNC (n=5) for all six investigated genes. The bars represent the mean value ± SE

Dose reconstruction CD4+T lymphocytes 24 h p.r.

Dose

Fig. 2: PMNC dose reconstruction. Dose reconstruction using a multiple linear regression model for the ΔCT values of all six genes. The dots represent the mean value ± SE (n=5)

Discrimination between different doses: CD4+ ans PMNC approach

Dose reconstruction

Dose reconstruction

PMNC dose reconstruction, 24 h p.r.

Dose reconstruction

Differential gene expression

Regulation of genes in different lymhocyte subtypes (1 Gy 24 h p.r.)

Dose [Gy]

Fig. 3: CD4+ dose reconstruction. Dose reconstruction using a multiple linear regression model for the ΔCT values of all six genes. The dots represent the mean value ± SE (n=7)

Dose [Gy]

Fig. 4: Capability for discrimination between the individual doses in the low dose exposure range (0-0.4 Gy): CD4+ and PMNC. Dose reconstruction using a multiple linear regression model for the ΔCT values of all six genes. The dots represent the mean value ± Min/Max (CD4+ n=7; PMNC n=5)

Research Activities 2008

78 Dr. Michael Stein Flugmedizinisches Institut der Luftwaffe, Abteilung Ergonomie, Manching [email protected]

Development of an Experimental Design for Anti-G Suits in a Human Centrifuge

79 air chambers in the AEA are pressurised with air via a valve.

as dependent variables within the scope of standardised

This leads to a narrowing of the full-coverage anti-G trousers

expert interviews, and the ‘mental disposition’ and

and of the counter pressure vest cross-sections. The pilot is

‘motivation of the test subjects’ were also recorded using

simultaneously respirated with compressed air via his oxygen

standardised questionnaires. Test pilots from the combat

mask (Positive Pressure Breathing anti G-System, PBG).

aircraft project liaison team and the Bundeswehr Technical

Adequate + Gz-protection is ensured in combination with a

and Airworthiness Centre for Aircraft (WTD 61) were also

simultaneously performed anti-G straining manoeuvre.

involved in the method development process to integrate all

The LIBELLE anti-G suit functions autonomously of other

the relevant flight and ergonomic aspects into the interview

on-board systems on the basis of ‘fluid muscles’ integrated

guide (for conducting the expert interviews). The interview

in the suit and the shifting of the amount of water contained

guide was reviewed and revised in several iteration loops.

in those fluid muscles under + Gz-loads. When + Gz-forces

The “mental disposition” and “test person motivation”

The German Air Force is currently using two anti-G

Jet-propelled, 4th generation combat aircraft, or so-called

occur, the cross-section of the anti-G suit is narrowed which,

constructs were included as a means of monitoring possible

suits in parallel for Eurofighter flight operations: the

high-performance aircraft such as the Eurofighter weapon

in combination with an anti-G straining manoeuvre,

error variance. These constructs are crucial particularly for

Aircrew Equipment Assembly (AEA), and the so-called

system, are able to generate forces of up to +9 Gz through

provides + Gz-protection.

human centrifuge tests since the results achieved by the

LIBELLE. To provide a basis for deciding which system

their enormous engine power (static thrust at sea level using

should be used in future, a scientific reference study

afterburner = 95 kN per engine), the use of light carbon

In a comparative study, both anti-G suits were tested by

day of the tests and on their motivation on that day. The

has been conducted in a human centrifuge with the

fibre reinforced composite materials (weight reduction),

19 subjects (jet airplane pilots) in various human centrifuge

Air Force Institute of Aviation Medicine worked closely

aim of evaluating all the relevant parameters.

and also their applied aerodynamics (combination of delta

runs as part of a ‘within subjects design’. Tested were:

together with the University of Wuppertal (Chair of General

and canard wings). It is particularly significant in this

>> several G-awareness profiles (the test person runs

Psychology) and other institutions on the preparation of

test subjects also depend on how the subjects feel on the

respect that +9 Gz can be reached within one second (high

the human centrifuge at + Gz-loads between +5-7 Gz

the questionnaires. Physiological correlates (heart rate,

onset rate). During the mentioned G-forces, a shift in blood

to acclimatise his body to the + Gz-forces),

ECG, pulmonary function, etc.) were additionally derived.

volume from the brain to the lower extremities can ensue,

>> a gradual onset run (linear + Gz-load increase of

leading to certain symptoms such as tunnel vision or also

+1 Gz /sec until the test person experiences restricted

The measurement data are currently being evaluated and

a so-called G-induced Loss of Consciousness (G-LOC)

vision and terminates the run),

will then be made available, along with the evaluation, to

and, in extreme cases, to loss of the aircraft and death of the pilot.

>> two plateau runs (the test person himself accelerates to the +6-9 Gz plateaus and stays there for a period of 10 seconds each) and

Two anti-G suits for controlling + Gz-forces and minimising + Gz–loads are currently available within the German Air

>> four simulated aerial combat manoeuvres (the test person simulates air combat in the centrifuge).

Force. One is the AEA and the other is the LIBELLE anti-G

Fig. 1: Aircrew Equipment Assembly including flight helmet

Fig. 2: LIBELLE anti-G suit

suit. The AEA is based on the pneumatic principle. When

The anti-G suit, the ‘feeling of safety using the anti-G suits’,

+ Gz-forces are encountered (e.g. during turning flight), the

‘comfort’ and ‘discomfort’, etc. were evaluated and analysed

Fig. 3: Cockpit of the human centrifuge at the German Air Force Institute of Aviation Medicine (Flight Physiology Dept.) in Königsbrück

Fig. 4: Human centrifuge of the German Air Force Institute of Aviation Medicine (Flight Physiology Dept.) in Königsbrück

the Chief of the German Air Force as a decision-making aid.

Research Activities 2008

80 Flottillenarzt Dr. Andreas Koch Schiffahrtmedizinisches Institut der Marine, Kiel-Kronshagen

81

Dr. Wataru Kähler Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Kiel

for decompression sickness (DCS) because of N2 being

(1 kg lead = 8.95 N weight in water) gives the diver feedback

insufficiently eliminated during reascent. It is hitherto

to help him keep his position. With the aid of a full-face mask

[email protected]

unknown, though, to what extent the reduction of ventilation

and a computerised spirometric unit, complete exercise

under water, as well as at increasing diving depth, is a

testing under water is possible down to a diving depth of

process actively and consciously initiated by the diver,

50m (0.6 MPa) (Figs. 1-4).

[email protected]

or whether the reduced ventilation and subsequent CO2

Diving Ergospirometry – Development of a Device for Exercise Physiology under Near-realistic Diving Conditions

retention by the diver are largely unnoticed processes.

Several studies have already been successfully completed

This is of relevance against the background of inadequate

in the meantime with the aid of diving ergospirometry,

ventilation despite there being an adequate air supply, also

yielding some important insights into breathing air

during reascent, and the accompanying risk of avoidable

consumption and CO2 retention during underwater fin-

diving accidents due to inadequate elimination of N2 during

swimming.

Scuba diving with compressed air represents a special

There is an urgent need for research into the physical

challenge to navy swimmers, particularly on operations,

exertion caused during diving, particularly with respect to

and involves dramatic changes in physical environment,

air consumption under water. A significant factor in this

There are, additionally, numerous aspects of exercise

Medicine thus closes a diagnostic gap by evaluating the

placing high demands on individual body fitness. The

connection is that breathing compressed air through a

physiology relating to diving on which there has been scant

exercise physiology of active divers under largely realistic

aspects of exercise physiology under diving conditions

regulator at diving depth makes breathing work more

research to date such as, among others, how far individual

conditions and is helping to improve diving safety.

have received only little investigative attention up to now,

difficult, and that fin swimming under water needs to be

experience of diving and fin swimming influences air

due ultimately to the fact that it is difficult, technically,

seen as a discipline on its own, especially where exertion-

consumption under water.

to measure physiological parameters at depth under real

related oxygen intake and ventilation are concerned.

diving conditions. The improvement of diving safety

Since the air supply available to the diver to cope with

To answer such questions, a diving ergospirometric system

hence calls for a method to measure exercise physiology

the entailed exertion is extremely limited, an acute deficit

has been designed and actualised at the HYDRA 2000

under realistic diving conditions.

of breathing gas is not seldomly the cause of serious and,

hyperbaric centre of the Naval Institute of Maritime Medicine

when all said and done, avoidable diving accidents, ranging

that facilitates the study of exercise physiology aspects

from inadequate decompression to drowning.

under near-realistic diving conditions.

It is well known that experienced divers have a lower air

The measuring setup is based on “suspended-weights”

consumption than beginner divers, which generally has

ergometry, which has similarities to so-called “tethered

to do with an increase in individual CO2 tolerance, or

swimming” where the diver is pulled backward by a variable

so-called “CO2 retention”. Although the much reduced air

weight on a pulley block and swims against the pulling

consumption of an experienced diver is to be rated as

resistance. The roller-mounted carriage to which the pull-

positive in view of the air supply being limited, CO2

back device is attached has to be kept in equilibrium in

retention has however been identified as a risk factor

the process. An optical display of the weight settings

Fig. 2: Active testing during diving ergospirometry

Fig. 3: Spirometry setup including Douglas bag inside the diving chamber

Fig. 1: Schematic drawing of diving ergospirometry

decompression. Diving ergospirometry at the Naval Institute of Maritime

Fig. 4: Computerised spirometry device for analysing the expired gas outside the diving chamber

Research Activities 2008

82 Dr. Karl Jochen Glitz Zentrales Institut des Sanitätsdienstes der Bundeswehr Koblenz, Laborabteilung IV – Wehrmedizinische Ergonomie und Leistungsphysiologie

Oberstarzt Prof. Dr. Dr. Dieter Leyk Zentrales Institut des Sanitätsdienstes der Bundeswehr Koblenz, Laborabteilung IV – Wehrmedizinische Ergonomie und Leistungsphysiologie

[email protected]

[email protected]

83 From a physiological point of view, performance can be

They allow the body surface of volunteers in insulating

greatly prolonged only by supporting the body’s own

protective clothing to be circumcirculated with air at high

thermoregulation mechanisms. The fundamental knowledge

rates during exercise on a treadmill in the climatic chamber.

for such an effective microclimate cooling system using

The heart rate, energy expenditure, body core and mean

sweat evaporation is lacking, however. For example:

skin temperature, and microclimate within the clothing are measured, and the sweat rate is ascertained, in order to

Cooling the Human Body when wearing Protective Clothing: A New Approach using a “Physiological” Mechanism

>> What is the optimal rate of ventilation for protective

analyse the thermal regulation. Psychological effects of

clothing, and how should the air be distributed

the heat stress are also taken into consideration, using

for adequate cooling? At 20 °C, dry air can absorb

practice-related test procedures to detect relevant changes

14.9 g H2O/kg air. If a person wearing protective

in cognitive capability.

clothing exudes 500 g sweat in one hour, 474 l/min Increased levels of protection afforded by clothing entail

The thermal insulation provided by military functional

added thermal insulation. As a result, performance

clothing is especially great due to stringent protection

may be limited and the duration of use may have to be

requirements (Fig. 1, 2, 3). Its wearers are exposed to heat

infused in a protective suit for heat dissipation?

dissipation method that supports sweat evaporation as the

reduced so as to preclude heat-related illness on the part

stress, particularly in hot areas of operation, resulting in

The infusion of excessively cold air might not only

most important physiological cooling mechanism of

of the wearer. A novel cooling method that uses man’s

decreased physical performance and working time limitations

lead to negative effects on muscles (coordination,

working man, so as to improve performance capability in

most effective physiological cooling mechanism, sweat

in order to prevent heat illness.

tonus), but also restrict the transportation of heat

insulating protective clothing.

>> What is the optimum temperature range of the air

to the skin via blood flow by vasoconstriction

evaporation, is under development to permit prolonged working in insulating protective clothing.

of dry air (20 °C) will be necessary.

Prolonged working requires effective body cooling. The

(constriction of peripheral vessels) and thereby

microclimate cooling systems used in civilian/industrial and

even hinder heat dissipation of the human body.

military applications do not have sufficient heat dissipating capabilities, however. Active ventilation systems rely on a

The Military Ergonomics and Exercise Physiology Depart-

forced flow of ambient air into the protective clothing,

ment is conducting a special research project involving

providing a certain amount of relief only under favourable

volunteers in a climatic chamber in order to answer these

conditions. In unfavourable cases, additional heat stress is

questions (Fig. 4, 5).

caused by the intake of hot and humid air into the clothing. Ice vests and liquid-cooled undergarments cool the skin and

A device to supply dry, temperature-controlled air, and a

dissipate heat by conduction. The “long term” effect of

special undergarment to distribute that air, have been

either method is limited, though, because they do not use

developed as technical prerequisites with the assistance of the

working man’s most important heat dissipation mechanism,

Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Engineer and General Field

the cold achieved from sweat evaporation.

Equipment (WTD 51) and the Bundeswehr Research Institute for Materials, Explosives, Fuel and Lubricants (WIWEB).

Fig. 1: Lightweight fragmentation-protective suit for explosive ordnance reconnaissance and disposal (EOD)

Fig. 2: NBC protective clothing

Fig. 3: Chemical protective suit

Fig. 4: Volunteer on the treadmill in the climatic chamber

Fig. 5: Volunteer during the testing in the climatic chamber

The aim of the present research is to test the effectiveness of the concept and to devise “specifications” for a heat

Military History and Social Science Research

3

Research Activities 2008

86

87

Dr. Bernhard Chiari Militärgeschichtliches Forschungsamt, Potsdam

The titles of the series, which are also available for free down-

as a whole as well as, occasionally, imparting the knowledge

load at http://www.mgfa.de/html/einsatzunterstuetzung/,

contained in the “Wegweiser” as part of deployment training.

[email protected]

each comprise three sections: firstly, essays on the most

The contingents, lead units and training facilities use the

important historical developments; secondly, in-depth

MGFA as a point of contact for questions regarding the

articles on special aspects (“structures and lifeworlds”); and

history of the theatres of operations. The MGFA, through its

thirdly, an annex including recommendations for advanced

product, contributes to a network that includes Joint Support

reading both in print and on the web. A chronological table

Service agencies such as the Psychological Operations

as well as other additional information including a detailed

Centre, the Bundeswehr Geoinformation Office or also the

index are designed to facilitate its everyday use as a manual

Leadership Development and Civic Education Centre.

Orientational Knowledge for Operations Abroad: The “Wegweiser zur Geschichte” (Guide to History) Series of the Military History Research Institute

when working in-theatre. Its size, layout and form of presentation are intended to make rapid orientation easier In the context of operations abroad, intercultural skills

The “Wegweiser zur Geschichte” series provides orienta-

are becoming increasingly important to each and every

tional knowledge on the histories and cultures of the areas

serviceman and woman. They help them to quickly find

in which the Bundeswehr is deployed. Eight volumes with a

The “Wegweiser” combines academic expertise and historico-

their bearings in complex scenarios. The “Wegweiser

total circulation of some 180,000 copies have been published

political education methods. Written in a manner that is

zur Geschichte” (Guide to History) series developed

so far. The “Wegweiser” gives information on the history

readily understood, it helps the reader to comprehend complex

and issued by the Military History Research Institute

of, and current structures in, Afghanistan, Kosovo, Bosnia

overall systems characterised by a multitude of actors and

(MGFA) provides useful orientational knowledge

and Herzegovina, the Middle East, the Democratic Republic

mental and cultural rules that differ from the deployed

concerning causes and outcomes of conflicts as well as

of the Congo, the Horn of Africa, the Sudan and the

soldiers’ horizons of experience. It starts with traditional

current solution approaches.

Caucasus region. The paperback series is specially tailored

ways of decision-making in a tribal society and ends with

to the requirements of the Bundeswehr in an expeditionary

the role of religion and ideals of virility in everyday life.

role, but is also available as a book trade edition from the

By, for example, describing the system of give and take in

Ferdinand Schöningh publishing house.

the hinterland of Afghanistan, it also draws contingent

for the untrained reader.

personnel’s attention to factors that may change a current The authors represent relevant specialised disciplines, some of

situation or destabilise a balance. Not least of all, the “Weg-

them as members of the MGFA staff, and others as external

weiser” fosters the ability to endure and accept otherness

contributors. Added to these are people who have themselves

and unfamiliarity as part of the reality of operations.

borne responsibility within military operational structures

Fig. 1: Conceptualising a “Wegweiser zur Geschichte” (Guide to History)

or in governmental or non-governmental organisations. An

The MGFA, besides conceptualising and producing the

Academic Advisory Council on Operational Support provides

“Wegweiser”, is responsible, in close cooperation with the

the MGFA with advice on concepts, specialised technical

Armed Forces Office as central coordinator, for distributing

issues and the on-going process of quality control.

it to the operational contingents and within the Bundeswehr

Fig. 2: Academic research using new media

Fig. 3: Elaborate specialised editing

Fig. 4: “Wegweiser zur Geschichte” (Guide to History)

Research Activities 2008

88

89

Dr. Heiko Biehl Sozialwissenschaftliches Institut der Bundeswehr, Strausberg

WissAng Iris Menke Sozialwissenschaftliches Institut der Bundeswehr, Strausberg

WissAng Jana Hennig Sozialwissenschaftliches Institut der Bundeswehr, Strausberg

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Socio-scientific Monitoring of Missions Abroad – The Bundeswehr Mission in Afghanistan

of support and information on the part of the Bundeswehr

in the pre-deployment training, the ongoing operations and

family support organisation or through improved scheduling

the post-mission seminars.

of the international deployments. The current research project on “The Bundeswehr mission An expert’s report on “EUFOR RD Congo” has revealed,

in Afghanistan” examines, among other things, the following

The Bundeswehr Institute of Social Sciences is a federal

politically as well as militarily within the Bundeswehr have

among other things, that soldiers participating in the

central questions:

departmental research institution which carries out

a special need for information. Sound data concerning the

Bundeswehr contingent of the Congo mission were as

>> How do servicemen and women evaluate the

socio-scientific research for the Bundeswehr on behalf

attitudes of, and strains on, Germany’s military personnel are

motivated to take part in further missions abroad as soldiers

preparation for deployment, including pastoral care

of the Federal Ministry of Defence. The Institute is

required to be able to realistically assess the Bundeswehr

of a previously interviewed SFOR contingent, despite the

and psychological support within the units?

tasked with drawing up and providing basic principles,

mission capability and sustainability.

extremely difficult field conditions. Similarities were also identified with regard to soldiers’ perception of themselves.

information and decision-making guidance through

>> What is the motivation and self-perception of the servicemen and women like? >> What attitudes do they have towards the use of force

systematic socio-scientific research for relevant depart-

The ongoing project of the Bundeswehr Institute of Social

In either case, almost two-thirds of the respondents perceived

ments to adequately carry out their responsibilities.

Sciences, “The Bundeswehr mission in Afghanistan”, is a

themselves primarily as ‘experts in uniform’. Acting in a role

follow-up to previous studies of the missions in Bosnia,

as development workers received the least approval among

The Bundeswehr Institute of Social Sciences has been

Kosovo, Afghanistan and the Congo. The Institute thus

the SFOR and EUFOR RD contingents.

monitoring and accompanying the Bundeswehr on missions

stands for lasting, problem-related and practice-oriented

abroad for more than ten years. Both the situation of the

socio-scientific research and advice. Through national and

The studies of the Bundeswehr international deployments

military personnel in the country of deployment and that of

international academic dialogue suitable survey tools have

are always based on a broad set of complementary socio-

regard to serving in multinational units and interacting

their families and the supporting associations in Germany

been developed, the state of scientific knowledge has been

scientific methods. Surveys by written questionnaire

with the population in mission countries?

are reviewed from a socio-scientific point of view. The aim

furthered, and information concerning missions has been

generate a representative opinion pattern regarding the

of the research efforts is to provide academic findings as a

consolidated.

mission contingents. Guided as well as in-depth interviews

To answer these research questions, an ISAF mission

and discussions with focus groups yield important

contingent is to be accompanied from pre-deployment

information concerning motivation, stress and challenges.

training to post-mission ‘decompression’. The project is

decision-making tool for the Federal Ministry of Defence. A research report on “Mission-related Separation”, for

and active combat missions? >> What are the main stresses endured by servicemen and women and their families and how can they be reduced?

In view of the complex and highly political nature of the

instance, has illustrated on the basis of detailed interviews

Bundeswehr mission in Afghanistan and the particular

with spouses how the strains on families can be reduced

The researchers obtain an authentic impression of the

hazards facing the servicemen and women, those in charge

during missions through more differentiated availability

soldiers’ situation in situ when they themselves participate

Fig. 1: Symbol on German ISAF vehicles

Fig. 2: Preparations for a reconnaissance patrol at PRT Kunduz

Fig. 3: German ISAF soldier watching the terrain around a camp

>> How pronounced are intercultural skills, also with

scheduled to run for a period of two-and-a-half years.

Fig. 4: ISAF soldier with Afghan schoolchildren

Appendix

4

Adresses and Contacts

Bundesministerium der Verteidigung Postfach 13 28 53003 Bonn www.bmvg.de Hauptabteilung Rüstung – Rü IV 2 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 42 57 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 16 90 email: [email protected] Abteilung Modernisierung – M II / IT 2 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 92 50 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 74 14 email: [email protected] Führungsstab der Streitkräfte – Fü S I 3 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 97 10 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 14 85 email: [email protected] Führungsstab der Streitkräfte – Fü S I 4 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 97 68 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 68 13 email: [email protected] Führungsstab der Streitkräfte – Fü S II 6 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 90 30 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 63 64 email: [email protected] Führungsstab der Streitkräfte – Fü S / UniBw phone: +49 (0) 30 / 20 04 - 24 46 fax: +49 (0) 30 / 20 04 - 23 27 email: [email protected] Führungsstab der Luftwaffe – Fü L II 1 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 46 80 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 65 73 email: [email protected] Führungsstab der Marine – Fü M II 2 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 47 39 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 50 03 email: [email protected] Führungsstab des Sanitätsdienstes – Fü San I 1 phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 62 33 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 75 46 email: [email protected] Abteilung Personal-, Sozial- und Zentralangelegenheiten – PSZ III 6 (Referat Wehrpsychologie/Militärpsychologie) phone: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 74 05 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 99 24 - 13 35 email: [email protected]

92

93

Bundesamt für Informationsmanagement und Informationstechnik der Bundeswehr (IT-AmtBw) Postfach 30 01 53 56057 Koblenz phone: +49 (0) 261 / 400 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 261 / 400 - 44 05 email: [email protected]

Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Kraftfahrzeuge und Panzer (WTD 41) Kolonnenweg 54296 Trier - Grüneberg phone: +49 (0) 651 / 91 29 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 651 / 91 29 - 2600 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wtd41

Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Waffen und Munition (WTD 91) Am Schießplatz 49716 Meppen phone: +49 (0) 59 31 / 43 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 59 31 / 20 - 91 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wtd91

Bundesamt für Wehrtechnik und Beschaffung (BWB) – T5.2 Postfach 30 01 65 56057 Koblenz phone: +49 (0) 261 / 400 - 38 54 fax: +49 (0) 261 / 400 - 38 66 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org

Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Pionier- und Truppengerät (WTD 51) Universitätsstraße 5 56070 Koblenz phone: +49 (0) 261 / 4 00 17 - 01 fax: +49 (0) 261 / 4 00 18 - 57 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wtd51

Forschungsanstalt der Bundeswehr für Wasserschall und Geophysik (FWG) Klausdorfer Weg 2-24 24148 Kiel phone: +49 (0) 431 / 607 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 431 / 607 - 41 50 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/fwg

Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Schutz- und Sondertechnik (WTD 52) Oberjettenberg 83458 Schneizlreuth phone: +49 (0) 86 51 / 79 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 86 51 / 16 - 00 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wtd52

Wehrwissenschaftliches Institut für Schutztechnologien – ABC-Schutz (WIS) Postfach 11 42 29623 Munster phone: +49 (0) 51 92 / 136 - 201 fax: +49 (0) 51 92 / 136 - 355 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wis

Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Luftfahrzeuge – Musterprüfwesen für Luftfahrtgerät der Bundeswehr (WTD 61) Flugplatz 85077 Manching phone: +49 (0) 84 59 / 80 - 1 fax: +49 (0) 84 59 / 80 - 20 22 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wtd61

Wehrwissenschaftliches Institut für Werk- und Betriebsstoffe (WIWEB) Postfach 14 32 85424 Erding phone: +49 (0) 81 22 / 95 90 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 81 22 / 95 90 - 39 02 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wiweb

Helmut-Schmidt-Universität Universität der Bundeswehr Hamburg Postfach 70 08 22 22008 Hamburg phone: +49 (0) 40 / 65 41 - 1 fax: +49 (0) 40 / 65 41 - 28 69 email: [email protected] www.hsu-hh.de Universität der Bundeswehr München Werner Heisenberg-Weg 39 85577 Neubiberg phone: +49 (0) 89 / 60 04 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 89 / 60 04 - 35 60 email: [email protected] www.unibw.de

Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Schiffe und Marinewaffen, Maritime Technologie und Forschung (WTD 71) Berliner Straße 115 24340 Eckernförde phone: +49 (0) 43 51 / 467 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 43 51 / 467 - 15 0 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wtd71 Wehrtechnische Dienststelle für Informationstechnologie und Elektronik (WTD 81) Kalvarienberg 91171 Greding phone: +49 (0) 84 63 / 65 20 fax: +49 (0) 84 63 / 65 26 07 - 707 email: [email protected] www.bwb.org/wtd81

94

Amt für Geoinformationswesen der Bundeswehr Kommerner Straße 188 53879 Euskirchen phone: + 49 (0) 22 51 / 953 - 0 fax: + 49 (0) 22 51 / 953 - 50 55 email: [email protected] Militärgeschichtliches Forschungsamt Zeppelinstr. 127/128 14471 Potsdam 14471 Potsdam phone: +49 (0) 331 / 97 14 - 501 fax: +49 (0) 331 / 97 14 - 507 email: [email protected] www.mgfa.de Sozialwissenschaftliches Institut der Bundeswehr Prötzeler Chaussee 20 15344 Strausberg phone: +49 (0) 33 41 / 58 18 00 fax: +49 (0) 33 41 / 58 18 02 email: [email protected] www.sowi.bundeswehr.de Sportmedizinisches Institut der Bundeswehr Dr. Rau Allee 32 48231 Warendorf phone: +49 (0) 25 81 / 94 11 - 46 00 fax: +49 (0) 25 81 / 94 11 - 46 49 email: SportmedizinischesInstitut@ bundeswehr.org Institut für den Medizinischen Arbeitsund Umweltschutz der Bundeswehr Scharnhorststr. 13 10115 Berlin phone: +49 (0) 30 / 28 41 - 25 01 fax: +49 (0) 30 / 28 41 - 25 03 email: [email protected] Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr Neuherbergstr. 11 80937 München phone: + 49 (0) 89 / 31 68 - 23 12 fax: + 49 (0) 89 / 31 68 - 32 92 email: InstitutfuerMikrobiologie@ bundeswehr.org

Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie der Bundeswehr Neuherbergstr.11 80937 München phone: +49 (0) 89 / 31 68 - 29 25 fax: +49 (0) 89 / 31 68 - 23 33 email: [email protected] Institut für Radiobiologie der Bundeswehr in Verbindung mit der Universität Ulm Neuherbergstr. 11 80937 München phone: + 49 (0) 89 / 31 68 - 27 49 fax: + 49 (0) 89 / 31 68 - 26 35 email: InstitutfuerRadiobiologie@ bundeswehr.org Flugmedizinisches Institut der Luftwaffe Postfach 1264 / KFL 82242 Fürstenfeldbruck phone: + 49 (0) 81 41 / 53 60 - 20 00 fax: + 49 (0) 81 41 / 53 60 - 29 99 email: [email protected] Schiffahrtmedizinsches Institut der Marine Kopperpahler Allee 120 24119 Kronshagen phone: + 49 (0) 431 / 54 09 - 17 00 fax: + 49 (0) 431 / 54 09 - 17 78 email: [email protected] www.marine.de Zentrales Institut des Sanitätsdienstes der Bundeswehr Koblenz Laborabteilung IV – Wehrmedizinische Ergonomie und Leistungsphysiologie – Andernacher Straße 100 56070 Koblenz phone: + 49 (0) 261 / 896 - 74 04 fax: + 49 (0) 261 / 896 - 74 09 email: [email protected]

95

Fraunhofer-Verbund Verteidigungs- und Sicherheitsforschung VVS Eckerstraße 4 79104 Freiburg phone: +49 (0) 761 / 27 14 - 351 fax: +49 (0) 761 / 27 14 - 400 email: [email protected] www.vvs.fraunhofer.de Fraunhofer-Institut für Angewandte Festkörperphysik IAF Tullastraße 72 79108 Freiburg phone: +49 (0) 761 / 51 59 - 458 fax: +49 (0) 761 / 51 59 - 111 email: [email protected] www.iaf.fraunhofer.de Fraunhofer-Institut für Chemische Technologie ICT Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Straße 7 76327 Pfinztal phone: +49 (0) 721 / 46 40 - 402 fax: +49 (0) 721 / 46 40 - 442 email: [email protected] www.ict.fraunhofer.de Fraunhofer-Institut für Informations- und Datenverarbeitung IITB Fraunhoferstraße 1 76131 Karlsruhe phone: +49 (0) 721 / 60 91 - 210 fax: +49 (0) 721 / 60 91 - 413 email: [email protected] www.iitb.fraunhofer.de Fraunhofer-Institut für Kurzzeitdynamik Ernst-Mach-Institut EMI Eckerstraße 4 79104 Freiburg phone: +49 (0) 761 / 27 14 - 351 fax: +49 (0) 761 / 27 14 - 400 email: [email protected] www.emi.fraunhofer.de Fraunhofer-Institut für NaturwissenschaftlichTechnische Trendanalysen INT Postfach 14 91 53864 Euskirchen phone: +49 (0) 22 51 / 18 - 0 fax: +49 (0) 22 51 / 18 - 277 email: [email protected] www.int.fraunhofer.de

Deutsches Zentrum für Luftund Raumfahrt, Institut für Hochfrequenztechnik und Radarsysteme DLR IHR 82234 Weßling phone: +49 (0) 8153-28 2305 fax: +49 (0) 8152-28 1135 email: [email protected] www.dlr.de/hr Deutsches Zentrum für Luftund Raumfahrt, Institut für Technische Physik DLR ITP Pfaffenwaldring 38-40 70569 Stuttgart phone: +49 (0) 771 / 68 62 - 302 fax: +49 (0) 771 / 68 62 - 788 email: [email protected] www.dlr.de/tp Deutsch-Französisches Forschungsinstitut Saint-Louis 5, rue du Général Cassagnou F-68300 Saint-Louis phone: +33 (0) 389 / 69 50 - 00 fax: +33 (0) 389 / 69 50 - 02 email: [email protected] www.isl.eu Deutsch-Französisches Forschungsinstitut Saint-Louis Postfach 1260 79547 Weil am Rhein FGAN-FHR Forschungsinstitut für Hochfrequenzphysik und Radartechnik Neuenahrer Str. 20 53343 Wachtberg phone: +49 (0) 228 / 94 35 - 227 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 94 35 - 627 email: [email protected] www.fhr.fgan.de FGAN-FKIE Forschungsinstitut für Kommunikation, Informationsverarbeitung und Ergonomie Neuenahrer Str. 20 53343 Wachtberg phone: +49 (0) 228 / 94 35 - 287 fax: +49 (0) 228 / 94 35 - 685 email: [email protected] www.fgan.de/fkie FGAN-FOM Forschungsinstitut für Optronik und Mustererkennung Gutleuthausstr. 1 76275 Ettlingen phone: +49 (0) 72 43 / 992 - 131 fax: +49 (0) 72 43 / 992 - 298 email: [email protected] www.fgan.de/fom

96

Editorial Details

PUBLISHED BY Bundesministerium der Verteidigung Unterabteilung Rü IV Fontainengraben 150 53123 Bonn EDITING, GRAPHIC DESIGN, LAYOUT opti | project GmbH, Rheinbach Gratzfeld Werbeagentur GmbH, Wesseling CONTENT SUPPORT Fraunhofer INT, Euskirchen PRINTED BY Warlich Druck Meckenheim GmbH, Meckenheim AS OF Juni 2009

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Amt für Geoinformationswesen der Bundeswehr, Euskirchen ARGE F-125 Bundesministerium der Verteidigung, Bonn Bundeswehr – Presse- und Informationszentrum Marine, Glücksburg Bundeswehr – Presse- und Informationszentrum UNIFIL Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Kiel Diehl BGT Defence GmbH & Co. KG, Überlingen DLR, Institut für Hochfrequenztechnik und Radarsysteme, Weßling DLR, Institut für Technische Physik, Stuttgart/Lampoldshausen FGAN-FHR, Wachtberg FGAN-FKIE, Wachtberg FGAN-FOM, Ettlingen Flugmedizinisches Institut der Luftwaffe, Fürstenfeldbruck Fraunhofer EMI, Freiburg i. Br. Fraunhofer IAF, Freiburg i. Br. Fraunhofer ICT, Pfinztal Fraunhofer IITB, Karlsruhe Fraunhofer INT, Euskirchen FWG, Kiel Helmut-Schmidt-Universität – Universität der Bundeswehr, Hamburg Institut für den Med. Arbeits- und Umweltschutz der Bundeswehr, Berlin Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr, München Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie der Bundeswehr, München Institut für Radiobiologie der Bundeswehr, München ISL, Saint-Louis Militärgeschichtliches Forschungsamt, Potsdam NATO Consultation, Command and Control Agency, Den Haag Public Health Libary CDC, Atlanta, USA Rheinmetall Defence, Düsseldorf Schiffahrtmedizinisches Institut der Marine, Kronshagen SKA – Mediendatenbank der Bundeswehr Sozialwissenschaftliches Institut der Bundeswehr, Strausberg Universität der Bundeswehr, Hamburg Universität der Bundeswehr, München WIS, Munster WIWEB, Erding WTD 41, Trier WTD 51, Koblenz WTD 52, Oberjettenberg WTD 71, Eckernförde WTD 81, Greding WTD 91, Meppen ZInstSanBw, Koblenz 17. DEU EinsKtgt ISAF