#Military Technology

[victusinveritas]

[reality-detective]

What the technological part of a missile looks like. 🤔

[youzicha]

It's cute to say that stealth aircraft got rounder for the same reason that video game characters did: because the computers got more powerful. But it's not the complete story. More accurately, it was specifically Lockheed's stealth aircraft that evolved that way.

Famously, a Lockheed employee noticed a paper describing how to calculate electromagnetic scattering from a polyhedron. They implemented it in software and used it to design the Have Blue demonstrator, which evolved into the F-117.

But at the same time, Northrop developed the Tacit Blue demonstrator, which was not designed using the edge diffraction software, and did not consist of only flat polygons.

Tacit Blue was the first aircraft to use "edge convolution" (a.k.a. "Gaussian stealth"). This smoothes out the edges by convolving them with a gaussian function. In particular, the convolution makes the edge of the wing sharper than if it was just a wedge between two polygons (with an ideal gaussian function it would extend out infinitely, so the acute angle would approach 0 degrees). This means that the edge of the wing will reflect less radar waves if it is illuminated directly from the side (from the horizon), which is the typical case if the plane is flying straight and the enemy radar is far away.

All stealth aircraft now use the gaussian smoothing idea, and you can clearly see the commonalities between Tacit Blue and the Northrop B-2.

Actually, when it came time to design the ATF (which evolved into the F-22), Lockheed also had to abandon their edge diffraction software. The ATF chief engineer commented:

We did not know how to analyze a curved stealthy shape in those days. The software wasn't sophisticated enough, and we didn't have the computational capacity we needed. We had our hands tied by the analytical problems. Lockheed had become convinced that, if we could not analyze a design as a stealthy shape, then it could not be stealthy. We would not break through that barrier until 1984. [...] We simply started drawing curved shapes even though we could not run the designs through our analytical software models. When we went to curved airplanes, we began to get more acceptable supersonic and maneuver performance. Instead of relying on software models, we built curved shapes and tested them on the company's radar range. The curved shapes performed quite well in the radar tests.

So in the end, I think the "smooth stealth planes" (B-2, F-22) were mainly designed heuristically and evaluated by building actual model airplanes; having fast computers to simulate them was not the bottle neck.

[tri-bi-blast]

Being creative, with intreats, while on social media is horrible because I'll just be watching YT, looking for some background noise while I play games, and then auto play will send my into a rabbit hole of military tech that I'll come out of with the inspiration to design a new missle based CIWS system in From The Depths, only for me to lose motivation when finding targets to test on, only to go back to YT and get inspired again, and yet I still can't test it.

[possumcollege]

Automated gunnery's made our sailors lazy as shit. Look at him down there. Useless swab doesn't even know how many cheese wheels it takes to send a party hat downrange anymore. "tHe GuN KnOWs, WhY sHouLD i hAve t0?"

PICK UP A BROOM OR SOMETHING FUCKSTICK.

[betterbemeta]

I love you Transformers, but even SD Gundam Force has a depiction of an APS (active protection system) in it. I'm talking about the specialized guns on certain tanks, military trucks, and ships that detect missiles and destroy them at a distance (hard-kill system), and about flares or laser systems that confuse heat-seeking missiles (soft-kill system.)

In real life, missiles are super destructive. they don't dramatically miss when fired at point blank so protagonists can leap away from explosions.

There's air to surface missiles, surface to air missiles, air to air missiles, surface to surface missiles, it's pretty much missiles all around. Some can pierce tanks easily, to the point where reactive tank armor is designed to explode with an opposite force when struck, negating some of the blast.

It's not WWI okay, modern air dogfights are some guy firing missiles at you and it's not like TV where you Dodge the Missiles. Air superiority planes have laser dazzlers and flares because infrared guidance systems are very sophisticated nowadays. Like, what do you think 'stealth aircraft' is about? Modern ordinance is so effective that the first 'defense' is not being detected or the other guy not being able to get a lock. If it's fired at all it's going to destroy something (expensive) unless it's disabled.

I understand that action shows and movies-- Transformers being one example-- do not want to depict a default lethality. Death happens to mooks, or when it's time for a Main Character to redeem their audience investment. But at this point the IP Movie Phenomenon has gone on so long and made so much money it can't help but ask adult audiences to be taken seriously.

At best most media that features 'armed conflict' is stuck in a pre-modern mindset because the current reality is depressing. It's not heroic for all sides to have 'prevent resistance or mitigation of your violent enforcement' as their M.O. Ordinary people relate to Sword Fights and Survival because we all need to use willpower every day to confront challenges in our world. But this is not that.

I could barely make it through half of the first bayverse transformers movie when I watched it recently for the normal reasons (misanthropy, misogyny, mis-everything) but given how much money the US military spent on this movie??? almost all of it is bullshit that completely ignores what the featured equipment is even FOR. The Military being Sexy but Useless IS propaganda: the public awareness is of the glamor shots, and not of the purpose or effectiveness of ganking everything with missiles.

I'm not asking for Starscream to obliterate the protagonists of a tv show with hellfire missiles that he copied. That would be boring. And I'm not asking movies or shows that are To Sell Toys to educate children on the murderous nature of war, or starting any kind of Discourse. It just amazes me that so much stuff that features Military Technology is totally disinterested in it.

[codexofforbiddenknowledge]

Time Travel: The Philadelphia Experiment Revealed—a Navy ship vanished in 1943, only to reappear with its crew in chaos. Was it a secret time travel experiment, teleportation gone wrong, or a government cover-up? We explore the conspiracy, from the USS Eldridge to whispers of the Montauk Project.

follow The Codex Of Forbidden Knowledge for more hidden tech mysteries.

What do you think—time travel or fiction?

[exehun]

I made these pictures last summer

[awesome-casuallyfamouscollector]

Lithuania is officially leaving the convention on cluster munitions on Thursday. Defence Minister Dovilė Šakalienė says officials are also considering alternatives to this type of weaponry.

“Quite a lot of work has already been done in this area, but we’re looking into certain types of weapons that we’re acquiring – ones that are slightly different but would essentially perform the same function. This process is currently being coordinated and worked out,” she told the Žinių Radijas radio station.

According to the minister, leaving the arms control convention is not only about the types of weaponry Lithuania plans to acquire but also about the “strategic message” of being prepared “to use absolutely everything”...

P.S. Main reason - the collapsing concept of the West... the European nations should boost defense capabilities as USA surrenders to Kremlin and North Korea... and failing miserably in the Middle East and Asia as well...

[ophilosoraptoro]

Something Very EVIL Is Going on In Maui | We Have The Proof...

[unwelcome-ozian]

[mastergarryblogs]

Inside the Light Weapon Market: Trends, Innovations, and What’s Next

Introduction to the Light Weapon Market

The light weapon market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by a combination of technological advancements, escalating global security concerns, and an increasing need for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications. Light weapons, which include firearms like rifles, machine guns, and grenade launchers, along with innovative smart weapon technologies, are integral to both defense and security strategies worldwide. The market is anticipated to witness a sustained compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.23% from 2025 to 2032, positioning it for substantial expansion.

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Market Value and Forecast

In 2024, the global light weapon market was valued at approximately USD 13.37 billion, with expectations for continued growth as defense budgets rise and new technologies evolve. Notably, light weapons make up roughly 0.7% of the overall global defense market. As countries around the world invest in modernizing their military and law enforcement capabilities, the demand for more advanced, efficient, and lightweight weapon systems is intensifying.

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Key Market Drivers and Challenges

Growth Drivers

Several critical factors are contributing to the expansion of the light weapon market:

Increased Defense Spending: Nations worldwide are prioritizing defense spending in response to growing geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats. This has led to a demand for technologically advanced, lightweight weapons that offer superior operational flexibility and performance.

Advancements in Weapon Technologies: The development of smart weapons, which integrate features like biometric authentication, advanced targeting systems, and artificial intelligence (AI), is driving innovation in the market. These systems are enhancing weapon performance, increasing user control, and improving security.

Demand from Military and Law Enforcement: As military and law enforcement agencies modernize their equipment and strategies, the need for versatile and efficient light weapons continues to grow. These weapons are crucial in a wide range of operational scenarios, from urban warfare to counter-terrorism and peacekeeping missions.

Civilian Participation in Recreational Shooting: The increasing popularity of shooting sports and self-defense needs among civilians is expanding the market for light weapons, especially in regions where personal security concerns are high.

Market Challenges

Despite the growth potential, several challenges exist:

Regulatory Barriers: Stringent regulations around firearm ownership, export restrictions, and international arms treaties pose significant hurdles to manufacturers and buyers. This restricts access to certain markets and limits the global reach of light weapon producers.

Political Instability and Economic Fluctuations: Political unrest in key markets and fluctuations in defense spending may hinder long-term growth, especially in regions where budget constraints limit military modernization efforts.

Segmentation of the Light Weapon Market

The global light weapon market can be segmented based on product type, technology, application, end user, and distribution channels.

By Product Type

Rifles: The dominant segment in the market, valued at around USD 8.5 billion in 2024, rifles are expected to continue their leading position. With military modernization initiatives globally, advanced rifles, featuring enhanced accuracy, mobility, and modularity, will see robust demand.

Machine Guns: Known for their role in sustained fire operations, machine guns are a key component of light weapon systems, especially for military and law enforcement use.

Grenade Launchers and RPGs: Both grenade launchers and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) are crucial for infantry units, with demand expected to remain steady due to their effectiveness in combat situations.

Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS): These systems, designed to target aircraft, continue to see demand due to their strategic importance in modern warfare.

Other Products: Mortars, heavy machine guns, and other tactical weaponry also contribute to the market’s diversification.

By Technology

Smart Weapons: Smart weapon technology is the fastest-growing segment in the market, with projections to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2032. The integration of biometric features, AI-driven targeting, and enhanced user interface systems is transforming the capabilities of light weapons, making them more accurate and user-friendly.

Manual Weapons: While manual weapons continue to account for a substantial portion of the market, the increasing demand for smart weapons is gradually overtaking the traditional firearm technologies.

By Application

Combat: The demand for light weapons for combat applications remains the largest segment, driven primarily by military and law enforcement sectors.

Self-Defense: Civilian demand for personal defense weapons, especially handguns and compact rifles, is also increasing due to rising security concerns in many regions.

Sport and Recreational Use: With the growing popularity of shooting sports and hunting, the demand for firearms designed for recreational use is contributing to market growth.

By End User

Military: The largest segment in terms of revenue, the military sector invests heavily in modern weaponry, including rifles, machine guns, and smart weapons. The ongoing modernization of armed forces around the world ensures strong demand for light weapons.

Law Enforcement: Police and security agencies continue to upgrade their weapon systems, adopting advanced rifles and smart weapons for enhanced security operations.

Civilians: The civilian sector, driven by self-defense and recreational needs, is increasingly adopting firearms, particularly handguns and sporting rifles.

By Distribution Channels

Direct Sales: Government and defense contractors account for the majority of direct sales. This channel is expected to maintain its dominance through 2032.

Retail Distribution: Increasing civilian demand for light weapons has bolstered retail channels, particularly in regions with higher rates of firearm ownership.

Wholesalers and Distributors: These intermediaries play a key role in reaching broader market segments, especially for law enforcement agencies and private security firms.

Regional Market Analysis

North America

The North American light weapon market is robust, driven by both military spending and civilian demand, particularly in the United States. The region is also a leader in developing cutting-edge smart weapons, with companies like Sig Sauer and Smith & Wesson pioneering new technologies.

Europe

Europe's market growth is fueled by defense modernization efforts, particularly within NATO countries. The demand for advanced, lightweight weapons for special forces and tactical units remains strong, with European manufacturers like FN Herstal and Heckler & Koch continuing to lead the region.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific market is seeing substantial growth, driven by the increasing defense budgets of countries like China, India, and Japan. The need for modernized infantry weapons, including rifles and smart weapons, is expected to surge as these nations enhance their military capabilities.

Middle East and Africa

Political instability and security concerns in the Middle East and Africa continue to drive the demand for light weapons. Countries in these regions are increasingly investing in small arms and tactical weaponry to combat terrorism and internal conflicts.

Competitive Landscape

The light weapon market is highly competitive, with a mix of established players and emerging innovators. Leading manufacturers include:

Sturm, Ruger & Co.

Smith & Wesson

Heckler & Koch

Sig Sauer

FN Herstal

These companies are at the forefront of innovation, with a strong focus on product development, modular designs, and smart weapon integration.

Recent developments, such as Sig Sauer's modular rifle platform and FN Herstal’s lightweight assault rifles, highlight the market’s shift toward customizable, advanced weapon systems.

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 Conclusion

The global light weapon market is poised for significant growth due to rising defense budgets, increasing security concerns, and technological advancements in weaponry. The demand for advanced, lightweight firearms, especially those integrated with smart technologies, is driving innovation in both military and civilian sectors. While the market faces challenges such as regulatory barriers and geopolitical instability, the future remains promising for manufacturers and end-users alike.

This dynamic sector continues to evolve, offering opportunities for strategic players to leverage cutting-edge technologies and expand into new markets. The growth trajectory of the market, combined with the increasing need for personalized, modular weapon systems, ensures that light weapons will continue to play a pivotal role in both defense and personal security applications for years to come.

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[stromuprisahat]

Six of Crows- Chapter 39 (Leigh Bardugo)

Anyone more familiar with tanks, able to confirm verisimilitude of this description?