SMR Main Document
Jargon Glossary
Ammunition
KEP = kinetic energy penetrator
HEAT = high Explosive anti tank
HESH = high explosive squash head
AP = armour piercing
API = armour piercing incendiary
API-T = armour piercing incendiary tracer
APHE = armour piercing high explosive
APHEI = armour piercing high explosive incendiary
APDS = armour piercing discarding sabot
APCR = Armour-piercing composite rigid
APCS = armour piercing composite shell
APSV = armour-piercing super-velocity
APBC-T = Armour-piercing ballistic capped tracer
APCNR = Armour-piercing, composite non-rigid
APCBC = Armour-piercing, capped, ballistic capped
APHECBC = Armour-piercing, high-explosive, capped, ballistic capped
APCBC-HE-T = Armour-piercing composite ballistic capped high explosive tracer
APFSDS = armour piercing fin stabilised discarding sabot
APFSDS-T = armour piercing fin stabilised discarding sabot Tracer
HVAP = high-velocity armour-piercing
ABM = air burst munition
HE = high Explosive
HEI = high Explosive incendiary
HEI-T high explosive incendiary
HE-T-SR = high explosive tracer Short range
HEI-BF = High-explosive incendiary base fuze
HE-FRAG high explosive fragmentation
HE-FRAG-PEN = high Explosive fragmentation penetrator
SAPHE = Semi-armour-piercing, high-explosive
SAPHEI = Semi-armour-piercing high-explosive incendiary
SAPHEI-T = Semi-armour-piercing high-explosive incendiary tracer
SAPHECBC = Semi-armour-piercing, high-explosive capped, ballistic capped
MKETF = Multi Element kinetic energy time fuze
FAE = fuel air explosive
Electronics
GPS = gunner's primary sight
CPS = commanders primary sight
CITV = fully stabilised commander's independent thermal viewer
PESA = passive electronically scanned array
AESA = active electronically scanned array
Hybrid PESA = passive/active electronically scanned array
APU = auxiliary power unit
FMC = flight management computer
AFCS = aircraft flight control system
FCC = flight control computer
RWR = radar warning receiver
MAW = missile approach warning
EW = electronic warfare
ECM = electronic countermeasures
ECCM = electronic counter countermeasures
APS = armour protection system
EOTS = Electro optical targeting systems
CRT = cathode Ray tube
LCD = liquid crystal display
LLLTV = low light television
FLIR = forward looking infrared
IRST = infrared search and track
CCI = commanders computer information
Nomenclature
MCLOS = manual command guidance
SACLOS = semi automatic command guidance
ACLOS = automatic command guidance
F&F = fire and forget
ASW = anti Submarine warfare
ASM = anti ship missile
RCS = radar cross section
AA = anti aircraft
AT = anti tank
NFOV = near field of view
WFOV = wide field of view
SARH = semi active radar homing
ARH = active radar homing
TVM = track via missile
PT = priority tracking
LDSD = look down shoot down
ACM = air combat mode
SAR = synthetic aperture radar
LPI = low probability of interception
TWS = track whilst scanning
MTI = moving target indication
OWS = overload warning system
IRCM = infrared countermeasures
RCM = radar countermeasures
HDD = heads down display
HUD = heads up display
HMD = helmet mounted display
CIWS = closed in weapons Systems
C-RAM = counter rocket Artillery and Mortar
SPAG = self propelled artillery gun
SPAAG = self propelled anti aircraft Gun
SPATG = self propelled anti tank gun
QP = quad packed
Light Torpedo = under <500mm
Heavy Torpedo = over 500mm>
Manpad = man portable anti air defence system
Manpat = man portable anti tank system
VSHORAD = very short range air defence system
SHORAD = short range air defence system
SAM = Surface to Air Missiles
ABM = anti ballistic missile
Spall liners = lining used to reduce spall from impacts
Fire suppression system = systems that automatically put out fires
Explosion suppression system = these are systems used to reduce effect of explosions with anti deflagration systems
GLATGM = gun launched anti tank guided missile
ATGM = anti tank guided missile
DU = depleted uranium
BOT = break of tip
HT = heat treated
INS = inertial navigation system
NBC = nuclear biological and chemical
CBRN = enhanced NBC protection
ERA = explosive reactive armour
NERA = non explosive reactive armour
RHA = rolled homogeneous armour
Tracking Ship
Are missile tracking ships designed to track Rockets and missiles, have massive radar and electronic warfare capabilities that can massively boost radar Range and track missiles. Effective for boosting radar capabilities and tracking, fighters also have Command, Control & Communication capabilities (C6). Examples include USNS Howard O. Lorenzen and Yuan Wang.
Surveillance Ship
Are ships designed to engage in electronic warfare and spying, usually have extended radar capabilities, SATCOMS and jamming and interception capabilities. Effective for electronic warfare. Examples include Vishney and Type 792
Radar Ship
Are similar to tracking ships in that they boost radar capabilities but without sophisticated tracking, C3 and EW capability. Effectiveness similar to tracking ships. Examples include SBXR.
Rocket Ship
Ship fitted with unguided rocket tubes, usually best for ground support role or saturation attack on fleets with swarm attacks, can damage aircraft on decks of aircraft carriers. Examples include Smârdan and C-14.
Assault Ship
Small boats or ships usually with short range ASMs or rockets and light Torpedos with an Autocannon. Used for fast swarm attacks and attacking other ships in littoral waters. Examples include Tapper and CB90.
Minesweeper
Ships designed for defusing mines, some can be used to lay them as well, effective at de-mining waters. Examples include Natya and Agile.
Minehunter
Are used for the detection of mines, effective for detecting mine fields. Examples include Kormoran and Osprey.
MCV Ship
Are Mine Counter Measures Vehicles that combine both hunter and sweeper. Examples include Avenger and Type 081.
Minelayer
ships designed for laying naval Mines, effective for mining waters. Examples include Type 918 and PM-274.
Unmanned Naval Vehicles
are Unmanned drones of various capabilities from maintenance to reconnaissance. Examples include Remote Underwater Vehicles and Sentry Surface Gliders.
Submarines
Conventional Powered
Are subs that use either diesel or electric forms of power (modern large subs usually combine two) typically can spend 2-4 weeks under water depending on size and have more limited range. Examples include Lada, S-80, Kilo and Type 039A.
Nuclear Powered
Are subs that use nuclear reactors as form of propulsion and power, typically larger (4,000+ tons) and are a lot noisier and easily detected especially due to size. Typically can spend 4-8 weeks underwater with unlimited range. Examples include Rubis, Triomphant, Vanguard and Typhoon.
Stealth Submarine
Are usually smaller (<3,000 tons) conventional Powered subs designed with reduced noise to reduce visibility and detection and use AIP propulsion, Low visibility hulls, Are much smaller, Anti Cavitation systems, Magnetic repellents, Internal vibration absorbers for all major systems, rubber dampeners, Sonar absorbing materials on lower sections and Upper sections coated with RAM . Typically can spend up to a week hidden underwater. Effective for sneak attacks, a single sub like this can carry up to 6-8x Heavy Torpedoes, enough to sink Fleet Carrier or mission kill several, all whilst undetected. This is proven in real life when a Swedish stealth sub during war games, whilst undetected, scored a hit against a Nimitz that would have very likely sunk it. Examples include Gotland, Type 212A and Type 039C.
Attack Submarine
These Submarines are fitted with many heavy Torpedo tubes and many Torpedoes with systems for hunting other subs, many of these subs also can launch mines, effective against ships at short to medium range. Examples include Type 214, Foxtrot, Los Angeles and Akula.
Ballistic Missile Submarine
Nuclear deterrence Submarines are used to house and fire ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads. Examples include Delta, Type 094, Borei and Ohio.
Cruise Missile Submarine
Are Submarines fitted with VLS Cells or tubes for launching anti ship missiles and cruise missiles, some also have some Torpedo tubes, they typically have many cruise missiles and Anti ship missiles stored. Examples include Oscar, Astute, Yasen-M and Virginia.
Support Ships
Auxiliary Vessels
Are various ships used for maintaining and supporting navies, these include, degaussing ships, icebreakers, sub support ships, repair ships, training ships, tug boats etc. Tug Ships are 1,000+ Tonnes and tug boats are <1,000 tonnes.
Logistics Vessels
Are ships like merchant Ships, Replenishment Ships, fuel tankers, barracks ships, fast combat supply ships, cargo Ships and ammunition ships, these are for re-supplying navies, maintaining logistics for your military and moving troops.
Patrol Vessels
Patrol ships are 1,000 tonnes and over with no major offensive systems and patrol boats are below 1,000 tons with no major offensive systems.
Naval Systems
Numbers in Naval Capabilities are Based on individual cells, although some cells can be quad packed with smaller Munitions and these are taken into account by looking at how many of each quad packed missiles have been built for X navy and how many cells belong to ships of the air defence or multi role variant. So 100 anti sub weapons or Autocannons means there's 100 individual weapons that can be fired at once or reloaded at sea internally such as auto revolver missile Launchers ammunition stored is counted as well although only non Gun ammunition is counted as well like Torpedoes or missiles that can be reloaded on board.
Command Systems
CC6: Class A
The highest level of command functions, these can be used to coordinate entire naval units across the globe, they have large command centres, global navigation systems, powerful SATCOMS and radars and unrivalled radio communication systems. Examples include Command ships and tracking ships.
CC5: Class A
The second highest level of command functions. These can be used to coordinate an entire fleet in the area with powerful SATCOMS, radios and command centres. Examples include fleet carriers and large surveillance ships.
CC4: Class B
The modern standard for fleets. These can be used to coordinate individual Battle groups or strike groups. Examples include modern cruisers and escort Carriers.
CC3: Class B
The most common for single vessels in modern navies. These can be used to coordinate the battlespace between a few ships and direct some aircraft and smaller vessels. Examples include modern destroyers and smaller surveillance ships.
CC2: Class C
The lowest level. This is used to coordinate a few ships or a single small group. Examples include modern frigates and corvettes.
Guns
Large Naval Gun: Class A
100mm+ Gun for short to medium range ship to ship (40km) or land attack engagements. Effective anti ship engagements with HE or AP rounds can seriously damage ships. (Note standard effective range is usually 40 km or medium range but with guided Munitions such as EU VULCANO and failed US LRLAP effective firing range can reach up to 200 km) Examples include L54 Mark 19 and AK-130
Small Naval Gun: Class B
50-99 mm Gun for short range engagements (20km effective range) effective for anti ship engagements with HE rounds can damage ship bridges and surface. Examples include OTO 76 and PJ26
Autocannons: Class C
20-49mm guns usually for anti air or projectile purposes. But can also be used for anti personal use or against landing craft. Typically have an effective range up to 7km. Examples include DS30B and F2.
Offensive Systems
Systems whose primary function is attacking other targets.
Multi Role VLS Cells
Are Vertical Launch Systems used for launching various ranges of Surface to Air and Anti Ship Missiles. They are stored in launch cells that can be tightly compacted and fired in rapid succession. (Note total missiles fired can be more than number of VLS Cells as for example a single Mark 41 or GJB 5860-2006 launch cell can be quad packed with smaller missiles this is not taken into account as it's specs for each ship not known) Examples include Mark 41, K-VLS and Slyder.
Short Range Anti Ship Missiles: Class C
Are anti-ship missiles with a range of 1-49 km. Examples include Sea Venom and AS.15TT.
Medium Range Anti Ship Missiles: Class B
Are anti-ship missiles with a range of 50-99km. Examples include P-70
Long Range Anti Ship Missiles: Class A
Are anti ship missiles with a range over 100km. Examples include Exocet and Harpoon.
Extended Range Anti Ship Missiles: Class A
Are anti ship missiles with a range of 400 km and over. Examples include Tomahawk and P-800. (Note many of these missiles have ranges of 1,000-2,000km+ but unless there is AEW or AGS Aircraft or other EW ships in use or satellite targeting that can massively boost radar or target capabilities to paint the target then they will only have that range as most modern ship radars used by American, Russian, European, Japanese, Korean and Chinese Navies have range of 300-600 km)
ASW Missiles: Class A
Anti Submarine Warfare missiles are specialist long range guided systems for engaging and destroying subs. Typically have ranges up to ~90 km and depths up to ~2 km. Examples include Otvet and CSY-5
ASW Rockets: Class B
Anti Submarine Warfare Rockets or short range missiles that are specialist weapons designed to enter water and destroy submarines. Typically have ranges up to 10 km with depths up to 1km. Examples include RBU-6000 and RUR-5.
ASW Mortars: Class C
Are anti Submarine Warfare mortars used for attacking Submarines, typically have range up to 300m and depth up to 200m Examples include Hedgehog and RBU-1200.
MLRS Tubes: Class C
Are Multiple Launch Rocket Systems usually 12x to 40x 107-122mm tubes filled with unguided Rockets, effective for saturation attacks on fleets especially for damaging aircraft on Carriers. Typically have a range of 1-50 km. Examples include A-215 and A-40.
GMLRS Tubes: Class A
Are Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems, usually 6-8x 200-406mm tubes filled with guided Rockets, effective for similar doctrine as long range anti ship missiles. Typically have a range of up to 200km. Examples include WS-3A.
Light Torpedoes: Class B
Are tubes with Lightweight Torpedoes typically around 100-400mm fired from ships or Submarines that glide underwater, one of these to several can mission kill Fast Attack Craft, Corvettes, Frigates or Destroyers, Typically have effective range of up to 20 km and depths up to 400m. Examples include MU90 and Mark 54.
Heavy Torpedoes: Class A
Tubes with heavyweight torpedoes are any 500mm+ Torpedo fired from ships or Submarines, one of these to several can mission kill Cruisers, Battlecruisers, Battleships or Carriers. Typically have an effective range up to 100 km with depths up to 900m. Examples include 65-76A and DM2A4
Defensive Systems
Systems used for protection against projectiles, aircraft or ships.
Short Range Surface to Air Missiles: Class A
Are surface to air missiles with a range of 10-29 km. Examples include OSA-M and M-1 Volna.
Medium Range Surface to Air Missiles: Class A
Are surface to air missiles with a range of 30-59 km. Examples include RIM-162 and Shtil-1.
Long Range Surface to Air Missiles: Class A
Are surface to air missiles with a range of 60 km and over. Examples include S-300F and RIM-67
Very Long Range Surface to Air Missiles: Class A
Are surface to air missiles with a range of 200 km and over. Examples include HHQ-9B and RIM-161
VSHORADs: Class B
Very Short Range SAMs usually IR or beam riding. Typically have ranges up to 10 km. examples include RIM-116 and HHQ-10
Machine Guns: Class C
12.7-14.5mm Guns, usually for anti personal fire against landing craft or anti air purposes. Typically have an effective range of up to 3km. examples include M2 and M134
Naval Mines: Class C
Are proximity or Homing explosives used to mine waters, especially important for Defensive fortifications and naval tactics. Examples include MK67 and Stonefish.
Grenade Launchers: Class C
Are any belt or box fed Launchers that shoot 20-40mm grenades, effective for anti personal use, especially against landing craft or small boats. Typically have an effective range up to 2.1km. examples include GMG and AGS‑40.
CIWS: Class B
Are Closed In Weapons Systems such as C-RAMs used for anti aircraft and anti projectile purposes, important for air defence capabilities. Effective range up to 7 km (Note only gun systems are counted, missile systems such as SeaRam are counted towards SAMs) examples include Phalanx and Kashtan.
Depth Charges: Class C
Explosives used for deterring Submarines, important for sub detection and Deterrence. Examples include ZAGON-2.
DEW: Class C
Are direct energy weapons, which are high powered lasers, used for anti projectile purposes. Typically have a range up to 7 km depending on strength. Examples include Integrated Optical Dazzler
Electronic Warfare Systems: Class B
Are systems like electronic counter measures and jammers. Effective for countering or disrupting enemy missile locks or nearby missiles in flight and jamming enemy radar and signals causing incoming missiles to miss. Examples include AN/SLQ-32 and HZ-100.
Decoy Launchers: Class B
Are systems designed to confuse anti-ship missiles or torpedoes such as chaff Launchers, decoy rockets or dummy targets, effective for defence against ASMs and torpedoes. Examples include ODLS-H and Mark 36.
LRAD: Class C
Are Long Range Acoustic Devices used mainly to deter piracy or troops attempting to board. Effective as anti personal use. Examples include CS-424 and MS-424.
Passive Systems
Sonar
Are systems used to detect submarines and torpedoes, effective for sub detection
Naval Technology Generations
Search Radars.
These are the radars that are the main search radars.
1st Generation Search Radars 1950-1960s
These are 2D monopulse systems. Examples include AN/SPS-10 and 4R90 Yatagan
2nd Generation Search Radars 1960-2000s
These are 3D PESA systems. Examples include AN/SPY-1 and Top Pair.
3rd Generation Search Radars 2000s+
These are 3D AESA systems. Examples include 5P-20 and AN/SPY-6.
Electronic Counter Measures
1st Generation ECM Systems 1950-1980s
Basic radar warning receivers that are connected to decoy Launchers. Examples include AN/SLQ-32 and Krab Watchdog
2nd Generation ECM Systems 1970-2010s
These set the future standard, digital systems with true all aspect protection for the ship, along with electronic attack and active jamming capabilities and are controlled from computers with CRT displays and can utilise different modes. Examples include AN/SLQ-32V5 and Kol'cho
3rd Generation ECM 2000s+
The most advanced in use, fully digital systems controlled by a computer with an LCD display and can protect against various radar, IR and electro optical systems including LPI radar can also be used to attack long range radar and IR systems. Examples include AN/SLQ-32V7 and Prosvet-M
Closed In Weapon Systems.
1st Generation CIWS 1950-1960s
Early radar guided anti aircraft guns. Examples include AK-230 and 30 mm/82 Compact
2nd Generation CIWS 1970-1990s
C-RAMs that utilised digital systems, digital fire control computers with electro optical and radar guided guns. Examples include AK-630 and Goalkeeper.
3rd Generation CIWS 2000s+
Modern C-RAMS that utilise fully digital FCS, phased array targeting radars and SD to HD FLIR targeting.
Examples include Kortik-M and Phalanx Block 1B.
Naval Guns
1st Generation Naval Gun 1940-1960s
These were early guns with manual rangefinders and basic fire control systems.
Examples include French 100 mm naval guns and AK-726.
2nd Generation Naval Gun 1970-1990s
Electronic fire control system with digital ballistic computer, fire control radar, IR guidance and a laser rangefinder.
Examples include AK-130 and Mk 45 Mod 2.
3rd Generation Naval Gun 2000s+
Fully digital FCS, Powerful 32-64x bit Digital Ballistic computer, 2nd or 3rd Generation FLIR, phased array fire control radar with a laser rangefinder.
Examples include A-192M and Otobreda 127/54 Compact.
Anti Submarine Warfare Systems
There have been two kinds. First is the point defence system like mortars or rockets second is area defence like missiles or rocket/Torpedo combinations.
1st Generation ASW Weapons 1930-1950s
These were known as basic anti sub Mortars or rockets.
Examples include , RBU-1200, Mousetrap and RUR-4.
2nd Generation ASW Weapons 1960-1980s
These are rockets fired into the water that are guided towards the sub area then detonate or missiles that fire and drop torpedoes with far more accurate systems.
Examples include RBU-6000, Metel and RUR-5 ASROC.
3rd Generation ASW Weapons 1980-2000s
These are modern systems with onboard digital systems, advanced guidance with improved detection, accuracy and range with resistance to countermeasures launched by subs.
Examples include UDAV-1, Vetyl and RUM-139A VL-ASROC.
4th Generation ASW Weapons 2010s+
The most advanced in use, fully digital systems with advanced seekers and excellent resistance to countermeasures.
Examples include RUM-139C, Otvet, K745A1, Medvedka and CY-5 Yu-8.
Torpedoes
1st Generation Torpedoes 1860-1900s
Early manual systems.
Examples include Whitehall Torpedo and Mark I Torpedo
Contact detonator
Gyroscopic guidance
Gas turbine
2nd Generation Torpedo 1910-1940s
Dawn of a new age with electronic systems, magnetic detonating and wire systems.
Examples include Type 53-27 and Mark 14
Contact detonator
Gyroscopic guidance
Compressed air turbine
Electronic motor propeller
Acoustic homing
Magnetic homing
3rd Generation Torpedo 1950-1990s
Birth of modern torpedoes.
Examples include VA-111 Shkval and Mark 48.
Wake homing
Sonar homing
Solid state electronics
Countermeasures resistance
Supercaptivation
Analogue INS
proximity or contact detonator
4th Generation Torpedoes 2000s+
Most advanced in use.
Examples include USET-80 and Mark 54.
Active/Passive homing
Thermal homing
Fully digitised electronics
Digital INS
pump-jet
Supercaptivation
proximity or contact detonator
Improved Countermeasures resistance
Ship Generations
1st Generation Ships 1940-1950s
Early Ships that saw mass use post WWII.
Examples include Forrest Sherman, Chapayev and Sverdlov.
Technical details
Steam turbine propulsion
1st Generation ECM system
Analogue fire control system (FCS)
Surface and Air search radars
Continuous wave fire control radars
Navigation radars
Hull mounted sonar
Combat information center on large ships (CIC)
Weapons Systems
Radar guided gun
1st Generation ASMs
1st Generation Naval Gun
2nd Generation Torpedoes
1st Generation ASW Weapons
2nd Generation Ships 1950-1970s
Era of modern ships was beginning to appear with radars for search and fire control, powerful communication systems and basic command centres and early computers with guided missiles.
Technical details
Nav/Attack system
Decoy Launchers
Data links
IFFs
Variable depth sonar
Aviation facilities with Helipad
Nuclear powered propulsion
1st Generation ECM systems
Weapons Systems
Guided Missile system
1st Generation SAMs
2nd Generation ASMs
1st Generation CIWS
2nd Generation ASW Weapons
Examples include Charles F. Adams, Farragut, Bainbridge, Long Beach, County, Riga-class, Petya, Kynda-class, Kresta II and Kestrel.
3rd Generation Ships 1960-1980s
The dawn of modern ships that utilise improved guided missiles, guided guns and phased array radars for search with digital computer systems.
Technical details
Digital communication system
Digital navigation system
Digital computers
Digital data link
Digital Hull and towed sonar systems
Digital radio system
Digitised FCS
Digitised systems
Digitised CIC with computers and digital radios
Satellite communication system
Frequency modulated continuous wave fire control radars
PESA search radars
IFF systems
Combat data and control system
COGAG propulsion
CONAS propulsion
2nd Generation ECM systems
IRST and TV guidance systems
4-16x bit digital ship central computers
Weapons Systems
Guided Missiles with revolver Reloading
2nd/3rd Generation SAM
3rd Generation ASM
2nd Generation Naval Gun
2nd Generation CIWS
3rd Generation Torpedoes
3rd Generation ASW Weapons
Examples include Floréal, La Fayette, Ulsan, Neustrashimy, Kara, Kirov, Sovremenny, Udaloy, Slava, krivak, Kidd, Spruance, Ticonderoga, F123, Yavuz, Delhi, Rajput, Brahmaputra, Virginia, Truxtun, Belknap, California, Type 051, Type 052, Type 053, Type 053H3, Type 053H2G, Type 051B, Type 051C, Type 956E,
4th Generation Ships 1990-2010s
Currently used as frontline Ships, fully digital FCS, compact multi function VLS Cells with multi function guided guns and modern phased array radars with fully digital communication systems.
Technical information
Fully digital FM-CW array fire control radars
Fully Digital PESA search radars with LPI
Fully digital ship control systems
Fully digital FCS
Fully digital CICs
Digital steer by wire ship controls
Global navigation system
Advanced digital data link
Reduced visibility hull
Towed Torpedo decoy
CBRN protection
Kevlar or composite protection for vital areas
HD TV and FLIR guidance systems
Integrated fleet wide combat management system
Command centres with computers utilising C2IS software for blue force tracking
Electro optical countermeasures
32-64x bit Digital ship central computers
Weapons Systems
Multi function VLS Cells
4th Generation SAMs
4th Generation ASMs
4th Generation Torpedoes
4th Generation ASW Weapons
3rd Generation Naval Guns
3rd Generation CIWS
Examples include Type 22, Type 23, Type 054A, Type 052C, Type 052D, Type 056, Independence, FREMM, Atago, F124, Barbaros, G class, B-class, Istif, Ada, Shivalik, Talwar, Visakhapatnam, Kolkata, Incheon, Kongō, Maya, Arleigh Burke, Freedom, Grigorovich, Gorshkov, Steregushchiy, Gremyashchiy, F125, Horizon, Type 45, Constellation and Daegu
5th Generation Ships 2010s+
Full stealth capabilities or advanced systems and fire control or both.
Technical details
Full stealth hull
AESA search radars
Enhanced digital CICs for improved C2
Integrated air and missile defense system
Integrated electric propulsion
Improved nuclear electric propulsion
64x bit digital ship central computers
Weapons Systems
5th Generation SAMs
5th Generation ASMs
3rd Generation ECM systems
Directed energy weapons
Improved large launch cells for quad packing of long range SAMs and ASMs
Examples include Project-17, Project-18, MMPC, F126, Derzky, Lider, Klewang, Mogami, FDI, Type 26, Type 31, Type 054B, Type 050S, Type 055, Visby and Zumwalt.
Submarines
1st Generation Submarines 1890-1920s
Early subs with steam power and basic weapons.
Examples include Narval-class, Morzh-class, Bars-class, R-class and S-boats
2nd Generation Submarines 1930-1940s
Early generation of subs with electronic power and acoustic homing torpedoes.
Batteries
Diesel-electric power
Modular construction
Radar transmitter
Microphone system
~120m max depth
Hydrodynamically streamlined hull
Examples include S-class, Whiskey, Zulu, Balao-class, Narval, Tang-class, Gato-class, Balao-class, Type XXI, K-class and Tench-class.
3rd Generation Submarines 1950-1970s
More advanced systems with diesel electric or nuclear with 1st Generation PWR and improved Hull construction with better armaments and utilising teardrop shape. Later systems had improved diesel electric systems or improved nuclear powered 2nd Generation PWR with improved Hull, better fire control systems and improved mission control systems.
1st or 2nd Generation PWR
Teardrop shape
Electronic navigation system
Electronic ship management
Electronic fire control system
Double hull
Vacuum tube ship central computer system
Obstacle avoidance sonar
Towed hydrophone sonar
Sonar intercept receiver
Sonar communication
Electronic counter measures (ECM)
Diesel electric propulsion
~1000m max depth
Television optical system for outside observation
Examples include Type 209, Charlie, Yankee, Tango-class, Type 205, Churchill, Juliett, Hotel, Skipjack-class, Skate-class, Permit-class, Foxtrot-class and Sturgeon-class.
4th Generation Submarines 1970-2000s
These are still used in much of the world. Digital computers, powerful communication systems and modern fire control systems with improved hulls
3rd Generation PWR
Electronic Warfare Systems
Air defence capabilities
Digital search radars
Digitised sub systems
Digital navigation system
Digital communication system
Digital fire control systems
Digital Data link
Diesel electric propulsion
8-16x bit digital ship central computers
Satellite Communications
CRT control panel displays
Anechoic tiles
Rubber coating
~1500m max depth
Inertial navigation system
Hydrodynamic sensors
Confusion/dilution evasion
Improved countermeasures with decoy launchers, towed decoys and ECM systems
Pressurised axial water propulsion
Command centres with digital computers and radios for fleet command
Nuclear Subs can cruise at 100-120 dB at ~5-10 knots.
Examples include Type 039, Shishumar, Los Angeles, Ohio, Trafalgar, Vanguard, Walrus, Delta, Typhoon, Oscar-I, Oscar-II, Sierra, Akula, Akula-M, Kilo, Kilo-M1, Rubis and Type 209
5th Generation Submarine 1990-2020s
These are the most advanced subs in use.
4th Generation PWR
Air independent propulsion
Fully digital systems
Digital ship by wire control
Digital INS
Improved data link
LCD displays
32-64x bit Digital ship central computers
Electromagnetic signal reduction
Phased array search radars
X-shaped stern
Global navigation systems
Low visibility rotor blades
Pressurised centrifugal or mixed water pump jet propulsion
Computer aided designed structure
Modular computer architecture
Photonic mast utilising HD TV, 2nd or 3rd Generation FLIR, 3rd Gen or 4th Gen night vision
Command Centers with C2IS systems for fleet control utilising blue force tracking and C2 software
More sophisticated sonar systems with synthetic aperture sonar and sonar imaging
Conventional subs can be full stealth at ~80-90 dB and cruise at full speed ~40 knots and virtually silent at ~60-80 dB at ~5-10 knots.
Nuclear subs can cruise at ~90-100 dB at ~20-30 knots
Examples include Type 039A, Type 039B, Type 039C, Type 094, Type 212A, Gotland, Sindhughosh, Kalvari, Scorpène, S-80, S5, Arihant, Triomphant, Suffren, Astute, Khabarovsk, Kilo-M2, Yasen, Yasen-M, Lada, Borei, Seawolf and Virginia.
6th Generation Submarines 2020s+
Set to be the most advanced in use, with the conventional subs utilising unmatched stealth capabilities and the nuclear subs utilising aspects of full stealth and improved propulsion systems.
Sensor fusion
Advanced control systems
Advanced protection systems
5th Generation PWR
Submarine shaftless drive
Integrated electric propulsion
Advanced ECM systems
Powerful ship central computers with C5IS software for fleet command
Nuclear subs can cruise at ~80-90 dB at ~30-35 knots
Examples include Type 041, Type 095, Type 096, Type 216, Columbia, Dreadnought, SNLE 3G, Blekinge, Kalina, Arcturus, Laika and SSNX.
Aircraft Carriers
1st Generation Aircraft carriers.
These were the systems used in WWII.
Examples include Implacable, Illustrious, Essex and Midway.
2nd Generation Aircraft Carriers
These set the standard with CATOBAR and STOBAR lifts with powerful communication systems and command centres.
Examples include Moskva, Iwo Jima, Audacious, Kitty Hawk, Forrestal and Clemenceau.
3rd Generation Aircraft Carriers
Dawn of the modern carriers, digital communication systems, powerful computers with enhanced battlespace command capabilities.
Examples include Príncipe de Asturias, Kuznetsov, Kiev, Nimitz, Vikramaditya, Tarawa and Invincible.
4th Generation Aircraft Carriers
The most modern in use, with fully digital operations and heavy automation and making use of EMALS.
Examples include Type 003, Type 075, Type 076, PANG, Charles de Gaulle, Mistral, Vikrant, Anadolu, Queen Elizabeth, America and Gerald R Ford.
Mine Ships
1st Generation Mine Ships
These were early minesweepers and Minehunters that utilised basic sonar systems and anti mine systems. Examples include T43-class, Fugas-class, Halcyon-class, Bangor-class and Algerine-class.
2nd Generation Mine Ships
had improved sweep capacity and were made with more sophisticated mechanical, acoustic and magnetic sweeps. Examples include T58-class, Yurka-class and Vanya-class
3rd Generation Mine Ships
These ships combine both sweeper and hunter, many are known as mine countermeasures vessels. Improved hulls for reduced detection, remote operating equipment and TV systems and powerful communication systems. Osprey-class, Avenger-class, Sandown-class, River-class, Sonya-class and Gorya-class.
4th Generation Mine Ships
These ships are of the same functionality as the countermeasure vessels but modern with fully digital operations and powerful computers. Bedok-class, Katanpää-class, Type 081 and Alexandrit-class.
Air Assets
Fixed Wing Aircraft
Are aircraft with fixed wings launched from escort or fleet carriers, varying from Fighters, Attack Aircraft, UCAVs, AEW&C Aircraft, EW Aircraft, transport Planes, rotorcraft, trainer Aircraft and Reconnaissance Aircraft.
Rotorcraft
helicopters or Tiltrotors launched from ships or carriers, effective for troop transportation from ship to ship or ship to land.
Amphibious Aircraft
Aircraft that can be launched on water.
Carrier capable Assets
ASW Helicopters
Are Helicopters used to hunt and destroy submarines, usually armed with Torpedo Launchers or ASW rocket pods, effective for anti Submarine purposes. Examples include MH-60R, AS532SC, Mi-14, Ka-65, Ka-27PL and NH-90 NFH.
Close Air Support Aircraft
Are armed helicopters or helicopter Gunships designed for attacking land or vessels, effective for anti-ship and anti personal use. Examples include AH-1Z and Ka-52K.
STOL = Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft just need a ramp to take off and good sized deck to land, mostly smaller prop planes, only jet aircraft that can use these are aircraft with powerful thrust, good breaks and back parachutes with powerful reverse thrust and lightweight that don't need much runway. Examples include light propeller planes and light Jets.
STOVL = Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing are aircraft that require a short runway and ski jump to takeoff and can land vertical with vertical thrust. These aircraft make the best of both CATOBAR and STOBAR although it requires specialist aircraft.
Examples include Yak-38, Yak-38M, Yak-141, Harrier, Harrier II, AV-8B, Sea Harrier and F-35B
STOBAR = Short Take Off, Barriers Arrested Recovery, Uses wires and hooks to land, aircraft need specialist equipment added as well as having back panels on deck to give greater support for thrust for taking off and needs a ski jump. Better for navies that want to engage in defensive operations, is cheaper to build than CATOBAR, easier to maintain and requires less crew to operate, although ordinance Capacity of aircraft and speed of launches is reduced.
Examples include Tejas LSD, J-15, J-11BH, J-11BGH, J-10SH, MiG-29K, MiG-29KR, Su-25UTG, Su-27K, Su-27KUB and Su-33.
CATOBAR = Catapult Assisted Take Off Barrier Arrested Recovery, Uses rockets built into the carrier deck to launch the aircraft, again needs specialist aircraft equipment built into the aircraft and needs arrestor wires to capture aircraft on landing. Better for navies that seek to launch offensive operations as it allows more ordinance capacity and faster launches but requires more maintenance, more crew and takes longer to build.
Examples include Buccaneer, Étendard IVM, Super Étendard, Rafale-M, A-4, A-7, F-4B, F-8, F-14A, F/A-18A, F/A-18E, F-35C, JL-10J, J-15B, J-15T and J-35
EMALS = Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, most modern systems, doesn't need as much maintenance and replacement as CATOBAR, only China and US have them, uses magnets to propel aircraft but still needs wires to capture on landing. Same aircraft as CATOBAR.
VTOL = Vertical Takeoff and Landing aircraft that use full thrust vectoring to fly and land without a runway however pretty much all still use STOVL. Examples include rotorcraft.
UCAV
are Unmanned Aerial Combat Vehicles which are drones with offensive capabilities. Examples include Reaper, Rainbow and Kirsch.
UAV
Are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles which are used for reconnaissance.
AEW Aircraft
Are Airborne Early Warning Aircraft that have CATAPULT or VTOL capabilities, which are capable of boosting radar capabilities, effective for extended missile Range and detection of fighters. Examples include Ka-31R, KJ-600, Z-18J, Z-8AEW, Z-9J, and E-2.
Reconnaissance Aircraft
Are aircraft used for reconnaissance purposes that are STOL or arrestor capable, effective for gaining intel on enemy fleet positions. Examples include VAB-3B and U-2.
EW Aircraft
are STOL or CATOBAR aircraft designed to engage in electronic warfare, effective against enemy fighters and fleets for jamming. Examples include EA-18G, EA-6B and J-15D.
Army Criteria
This is still in early stages.
Small Arms
Old Generation Small Arms
Early 20th century equipment. Examples include Mosin Nagant, SVT-40, DShk, M1903 Springfield, M2 Browning and M1 Garand.
1st Generation Small Arms
These are just normal guns with normal sights.
Examples include AK-47, RPD, SKS, M16, M60 and M14.
2nd Generation Small Arms
These are more refined guns. Examples include AK-74, RPK-74, PK, SVD, SVU, M16A2, M24 and M240.
They utilise the following
Telescopic sights
Illumination sights
Red dot sights
NV Scopes
Rail attachments
Improved intermediate cartridge for AR
Hardened steel rounds for infantry
Maraging steel penetrator for AP rounds
3rd Generation Small Arms
These are the current modern standards. Examples include AK-12, PKP, SVDM, M4A1, M249 SAW and Mk 14 EBR
They utilise the following
Laser range finder
Tactical flashlight
Illumination sights
Telescopic sights
Reflex sights
Holographic sights
Integrated rails
Thermal Scopes
3rd/4th Gen night vision Scopes
Improved hardened steel rounds for standard infantry rounds
Tungsten rounds for AP
4th Generation Small Arms
These are the most advanced systems. Examples include M7, M250, MRAD, AK-22, RPK-16 and SV-98M.
They utilise the following
Digital sights with built in FCS
Telescopic thermal sights
Integrated suppressors
Higher powered ammunition
Combat Equipment
1st Generation Combat Equipment
These were just early military outfits.
2nd Generation Combat Equipment
These introduced many new systems.
They utilise
1st/2nd Gen NVGs
C3 Digital radio communication system
Body armour rated against 7.62×39mm FMJ
Ballistic helmet
Basic vest
3rd Generation Combat Equipment
These are the modern standards. Examples of these are Russia and the US.
They utilise
Ballistic helmet with NV mounts
C2IS computer tablet
C3I communication system
3rd/4th Gen NVGs
1st/2nd Gen thermal ocular
Combat watch
Global navigation receivers
Portable SATCOMs
Tactical vest
Body armour rated against 7.62×39mm or 5.56×45mm HS AP
Russia
USA
Military Command and Control Network
1st Generation Military C2
This was the old standard.
They utilise
Satellite communication vehicles
Military communication
C3I Vehicles
Supercomputers
Digital Infantry radio communications
Satellite targeting systems
Global navigation system with military accuracy of <20m
Countries that utilised these were USSR and USA
2nd Generation Military C2
This is the current modern standard.
They utilise
C3I Infantry level communication system
Nationwide military communication system
Powerful Military supercomputers.
C4IS Vehicles
Portable blue force tracking systems
Portable SATCOMS
Satellite Surveillance network
Communication satellites
Modern global navigation system with military accuracy of <1m
Cyber warfare branch
Countries with such systems USA, Russia, China and EU
Russia
USA
Individual Vehicles, Equipment and Range Criteria
Light Mortars
are any mortars that are below 100mm. Examples include 2B14 and BM-37.
Heavy Mortars
Are any mortars above 100mm. Examples include M240 and M30
Point Defence
Are very short range surface to air missile systems with a range up to 20 km. Examples include Strela-10 and AN/TWQ-1 Avenger.
Short Range Area Defence
Are any surface to air missile systems with a range greater than 20 km and up to 40 km Examples include Hawk and Kub.
Medium Range Area Defence
Are any surface to air missiles with a range greater than ~40 km and up to 80 km. Examples include Buk and HQ-11.
Long Range Area Defence
Are any surface to air missile systems with a range greater than ~80 km and up to 200 km. Examples include S-300 and Patriot.
Very Long Range Area Defence
Are any surface to air missile systems with a range over 200 km. Examples include S-400 and THAAD
Short Range Ballistic Missiles
Are ballistic missiles with ranges from up to 500 km. Examples include MGM-140 and Iskander-M.
Medium Range Ballistic Missiles
Are ballistic missiles with a range between 500-2,000km. Examples are Scud-D and Shaurya.
Long Range Ballistic Missiles
are ballistic missiles with a range between 2,000-5,500km. Examples include Hwasong-10 and DF-26.
Long Range Cruise Missiles
Are cruise missiles with a range over 1,000km. Examples include Nirbhay and CJ-10.
Medium Range Cruise Missiles
Are cruise missiles with ranges between 500-1,000km. Examples include Babur and BrahMos.
Short Range Cruise Missiles
Are cruise missiles with ranges up to 500 km. Examples include R-360 Neptune and Iskander-K.
Utility Vehicles
are vehicles that are akin to normal cars, buses or vans just used for military use, are used for logistics. Examples include Humvee and UAZ-452.
Infantry Mobility Vehicles
Are vehicles like MRAPS and armoured wheeled vehicles that carry 2+ troops, that can protect against standard small arms fire up to ~100m and are used for logistics. Examples include LMV and MaxxPro.
UGVs
Unmanned ground vehicles are ground based drones with various functions from combat, EW, Minesweepingor recon. Examples include Uran-14 and Uran-9.
Engineering Vehicles
Equipment used for modification of the landscape; these include trenchers, Diggers and Cranes, bridging Vehicles and recovery and loading vehicles. Examples include IMR-2 and TMM-6.
Specialist Vehicles
These are vehicles intended for specialist roles. These include Decontamination vehicles, reconnaissance vehicles, minesweeper, Minelayers, smoke Generators, rescue Vehicles, firefighting vehicles and ammunition and Reloading Vehicles. Examples include UR-77 and TDA-3.
Command and Control Systems
These are vehicles and equipment used for the coordination of the battlespace; these include CC2 Vehicles, CC3 Vehicles, CC4 Vehicles, Communication systems and mobile Radar systems. Examples include Nebo and MPPU.
Electronic Warfare Systems
These are vehicles and equipment used for electronic warfare purposes; these include counter battery systems, EW equipment and anti drone systems. Examples include Zoopark-1 and Krasukha.
Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Guns
First purpose AA gun against planes was the A75mm 1913 by the French. Since then, the Russians have largely dominated anti aircraft design ever since.
1st Generation Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Guns
Date built 1913-1943
First to last Autocanon de 75 1913 to Flakpanzer 38
Goats being QF 3-inch 20 cwt and M1914
We're early AA guns. Usually just a gun on a truck or vehicle.
Manual sights
Self Propelled
Effective firing range 1-4 km
Examples include Flakpanzer 38, QF 3-inch 20 cwt, Ordnance QF 13 pounder Mk III Lorry MkI, QF 13-pounder Mk IV, Autocanon de 75 mm mle 1913, Canon de 75 mm Contre-aéroplanes mle 1917, Canon de 75 mm antiaérien mle 1913, M16 half-track and M1914
2nd Generation Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Guns
Date built 1942-1981
First to last Landsverk L-62 to Type 80
Goats being ZSU-57-2 and Flakpanzer IV
Are any 20mm+ or flak guns that can move on their own, typically have collimators and manual sights with more advanced features.
Low end examples include Ta-se, Pierce-Arrow, Nimród, Skink, Landsverk L-62, Flakpanzer 341, Flakpanzer IV, Centaur AA, Crusader AA, Crusader AA Mk II, 40M Nimród, Möbelwagen, Ostwind, M53 Praga, M19 and M42
High end examples include ZSU-37, ZSU-57-2, Type 63, Type 80, Type 98 and Kugelblitz
Optical lead calculating Rangefinders
Radio proxy ammunition
Radio communication systems
Mechanical calculators
Effective firing range of 1-6 km
3rd Generation Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Guns
Date built 1957-1990
First to last ZSU-37-2 to Type 90
Goats being M163 and ZU-23-4V
Radar targeting systems and basic computer systems.
Low end examples include ZSU-37-2, ZU-23-4, Wildcat SPAA and M163
High end Examples include Type 90, ZSU-23-4V1, ZSU-23-4M3 and M163A1
Telescopic Optical rangefinders
HE-T and APDS rounds
Radar guided rounds
0 or 1st Gen night vision
Vacuum tube electronics
Electronic Fire control computer
Electronic fire control system
Effective firing range of 1-7 km
CW radar guidance with search ranges of 1-20km
Continuous Wave fire control radar
4th Generation Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Guns
Date built 1970-2009
First to last Flakpanzer to CS/SA1
Goats being Tunguska-M and ZSU-23
Era of advanced SPAAGs with better computers, improved electronics, improved night fighting capability and IFF systems.
Low end examples include Gepard 1A1, Gepard 1A2, ZSU-23-4M3, Tunguska, M247, M163A2, Fliegerabwehrpanzer 68, Luftvärnskanonvagn 9040, Otomatic, SIDAM-25 and PGZ-88
High end examples include Marksman, CS/SA1, CS/AA6, PGZ-95, Tunguska-M, Machbet, PZA Loara and Hibneryt
Laser rangefinders
2nd or 3rd Gen Night Vision
IFF systems
Solid state electronics
Automatic target tracking
EOTS with LLLTV/1st gen IIR optical tracker combined with laser tracking and a digital MTI monopulse or pulse doppler fire control radar
Electromechanical stabilisation for firing on the move
8-16x bit Digital fire control computer
Digital FCS
ECM systems
Effective firing range of 1-6 km
Radar with search ranges of 1-30 km
Track ranges of 1-15 km.
5th Generation Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Guns
Date built 1995-2023
First to last Pantsir-S1 to Pantsir-SM
Goats being Tunguska-M1 and Pantsir-S1
Are fully digital systems with modern 2nd Gen thermals with 4th gen targeting radars with global navigation systems and sophisticated IFF systems.
Low end examples include ZSU-23-4M4, ZSU-23-4M-A1, PGZ-04A, PGL-12, K263A3, K30, Pantsir-S1, Tunguska-M1, LVKV90 and Round-trip
High end examples include MADIS RWS, RAPIDFire, LD-2000, LD-3000, Centurion, ZSU-23-4UB, ZSU-23-4MP Bila, ZSU-23-4BAL, ZSU-23-4V-22, PGZ-09, Pantsir-SM and Pantsir-S2
Global navigation systems
SATCOMS
Improved ECM systems
2nd Gen IRST
Low probability intercept radar
Fully Digital fire control systems
32x bit Digital Ballistic computer
Improved digital IFF systems
Digital displays utilising C2IS software
Effective firing range of 1-8 km
1st or 2nd Gen FLIR with detection of aircraft from 7-14 km
Comms systems for system link with coordinated firings
PESA fire control Radar with engagement ranges of 1-40 km
6th Generation Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Guns
Date built 2017-2022
First to last KORKUT to CS/SA5
The most advanced systems in use, highly mobile, powerful computers, guided Munitions, enhanced ranges and unmatched countermeasures.
Examples include Mangart 25, SA-35, RAPIDFire, KORKUT, JRGV-1, LD-35, Type 625E, PGL-625, CS/SA2, CS/AA5, CS/SA5, Skyranger 35, Skyranger 30 and 2S38 Derivatsya-PVO
Programmable Munitions
Panoramic EOTS
Air burst Munitions
Effective firing ranges up to 15 km
Firing on move
3rd Gen IRST
64x bit Digital Ballistic computer
Advanced ECCM systems
Digital displays with C4ISR software
AESA fire control radar with engagement ranges up to 70 km
3rd Generation FLIR with detection of aircraft up to 40 km
Self Propelled Artillery Guns
The British invented the SPAG and the Americans defined early SPAGs with the Americans setting the modern standard with the M109, although they were very slow to innovate as when Russia and Western Europe were creating their first 5th Gen systems the USA had not long just created their 4th.
1st Generation Self Propelled Artillery Guns
Date built 1917-1942
First to last Gun Carrier Mark I to T-30
Goats being Mortier 280 and gun carrier Mark 1
Were early SPAGs developed during the war years, were just artillery fixed to a vehicle. many were used as assault guns.
Examples include 90/53 su Lancia 3Ro, Semovente Ruotato da 90/53 Breda 501, 100/17 su Lancia 3Ro, 102/35 su SPA 9000, 105/29 AV su SPA 9000C, 90/53 su Breda 52, Deacon, T19, T30, Gun Carrier Mark I, Canon de 194 GPF 1918, Birch Gun, Mortier 280, SU-12, Canon de 220mm L Mle1917 Schneider and Fiat–SPA S37.
Self Propelled gun
Manual sights
Fully manual target laying
CEPs of ~800m
Effective firing range up to 10 km
2nd Generation Self Propelled Artillery Guns
Date built 1940-1961
First to last Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf B to M108
Goats being Sexton and M7 Priest
Low end examples include M55, M44, M41, M21, M12, M37, M56, M7 Priest, M8, Hummel, Wespe, Nashorn, Bishop, Sexton, Sturer Emil, Elefant, Sturm, Makmat, Grille, Bison and T92
High end examples include 2A3, 2B1, M107 and M108
Integrated rangefinder
Telescopic sights
Mechanically assisted target laying
Mechanical FCS
Basic Radio communication system
CEPs of ~600m
Effective firing range of up to 15 km
3rd Generation Self Propelled Artillery Guns
Date built 1963-2015
First to last M109 to Raad-2M
Goats being 2S1 and M109.
The era of modern SPAGs, have better rangefinders, NBC protection, power rammers and better Munitions such as rocket assisted projectiles.
Examples include Type 74, Type 75, 2S1, 2S3, 2S5, M109, M109G, M109A1, M109A1B, M109A2, M109A3, M109A3B, M109A3G, M110, M110A1, M110A2, Grkpbv 90, NM204, Panzermorser, bandkanon 1, Abbot, Md. 89, M82, CM60A1, KRH TEKA and M125A1
High end examples include Palmaria, AMX-30 AuF1, DANA, M-1978, Raad-2, Raad-2M, M109A3GN, M109A4, M109A5, 2S3M, 2S7, PLZ-83, PLZ-85 and PLZ-82
NBC protection
Power rammers
Mechanically stabilised gun
Mechanical Ballistic artillery calculator
Analogue Semi automatic 1× axis target laying
Gen 0 or 1st gen Night Vision
Better optical rangefinders
Better munitions with RAPs
VHF radio with C2
~3 minute engagement time
~40-60m deployment time
CEPs around ~400m
Effective firing range up to 30 km
Improved armour plating against 7.62mm at ~100m
4th Generation Self Propelled Artillery Guns
Date built 1983-2019
First to last 2S19 to HM-41
Goats being 2S19 and 2S3M1
Are systems that use computers for control systems to be able to accurately fire upon targets each time. Along with improved control systems and Munition firings.
Low end examples include G6, G6 M1A3, Al-Majnoon, Al-Fao, M-46 Catapult, 2S19, 2S23, 2S3M1, 2S7M, AMX-30 AUF-TM, HM-41, PLZ-89, K281, K242A1, K532 & Type 75
High end examples include 2S19M1, 2S3M2, AMX-30 AUF2, A-222, Denel T7, PLZ-45, Bhim, AS-90 and M109A6
Laser rangefinders
Inertial navigation system
Internally Guided Munitions
2nd or 3rd Gen Night Vision
CBRN Protection
CRT displays for mission control
Armour against 5.56×39mm FMJ AP
Laser guided Munitions
Digital Automatic 2× axis target laying
2nd Generation radio system
Digital artilery compass system
Digital control panel for round selection
Digital navigation system
Digital FCS
~1m engagement time
~15-24m deployment time
Comms systems for coordinating fire
Effective firing range of up to 50 km
CEP's for unguided rounds around ~300m
16-32x bit Digital ballistic artillery calculator
Solid state electronics
5th Generation Self Propelled Artillery Guns
Date built 1996-2025
First to last PzH-2000 to 2S44
Goats 2S19M2 and PzH-2000
Are systems that use fully digital fire control systems with Global Navigation Systems for guidance and much better coordinated Firings.
Examples include PzH-2000, 2S22, 2S3M3, 2S34, 2S19M2, K105A1, Primus, SH-11, SH-14, SH-15, SH-16, PLL-09, PCL-161, PCL-171, PCL-181, PLZ-05, PLZ-07, W-90, M109 KAWEST, M109 KAWEST-WE, M109A3GNM, M109-AURORA, K55A1, K9, DANAM1, 2S1T, Zuzana, Zuzana 2, AHS Krab, AHS Kryl, Nora B-52K0, Nora B-52K1, Nora B-52K-I, CAESAR 6x6, CAESAR 8x8, Type 19, Type 99, T-155 Fırtına and Vajra-T
High end examples include SIGMA 155, M109A7, 2S43, 2S44, PZL-130, PLZ-07A, PLZ-07B, ATMOS 2000, MORANA, K9A1, K9A2 and Archer
Satellite guided Munitions
Global navigation systems
MRSI Burst fire modes
1st or 2nd Gen Thermals
Fully digital Automatic all axis target laying
Pulse doppler radar for enhanced firings
~30 second engagement time
~2-8 minute deployment time
Effective firing up to 100km
CEPs for unguided rounds around ~200m
LCD Multi function Displays for mission control
Connection to reconnaissance UAVs slaved to displays
64x bit Digital Ballistic artilery calculator
Fully Digital fire control
Panoramic EOTS
Satellite communications
3rd Generation radio systems
Fully digital communication system
Digital display utilising C2IS software
Armour against 14.5×114mm FMJ AP
6th Generation Self Propelled Artillery Guns
Date built 2015-2024
First to last 2S35 to RCH-155
The most advanced SPAGs there are very few in production with many prototypes.
Examples include Porcupine, MGS-25 Aleksandar, 2S35, SH-16A, K9A3, EVA, DITA, CAESAR Mark II, ATI, AGM and RCH-155.
Fully automated loading
All digital FCS with sensor fusion
2 man crews
Remote operating systems
4th Generation radio systems
3rd Gen Thermals
AESA radars for enhanced firings
Firing on the move
Digital displays with C4ISR computer software
~10-20 second engagement times
~1m deployment time
Effective firings up to ~100 km
CEPs around ~100m for unguided rounds
Armoured crew cabins with protection against 20mm AP
Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
Unguided rocket Artillery. Rocket system innovation has been dominated by Russia, creating the first and 2nd Gen systems as well as the GMLRS and setting the standard with the GRAD system.
1st Generation Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
Date built 1938-1961
First to last BM-8 to Type 63
Goats being Type 63 and BM-13
These are rocket tubes or rails that fire unguided rockets, usually in fast succession, however they are generally very inaccurate and only effective just for saturation fire across vast areas.
Low end examples include BM-8, BM-11, BM-13, BM-31, Mattress, Calliope, Type 4, Type 21/22, Type 63, Type 80, Wurfrahmen 40, M17 Whizbang, Panzerwerfer, 8 cm Raketen-Vielfachwerfer, 30 cm Nebelwerfer 42, 21 cm Nebelwerfer 42, 15 cm Nebelwerfer 41, 28/32 cm Nebelwerfer 41, Hs 297, Z Battery, NDL-40 and XM70
High end examples include RM-51, BM-14, BM-16, BM-24, BM-25 and BMD-20
Unguided rocket tube
Manuel sights
Effective firing range of 1-20km
CEP of <10m at 100-300m
2nd Generation Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
Date built 1959-2000
First to last BM-21 to KRL-122
Goats being BM-27 and BM-21
Have better fire control systems, better rangefinders with more accurate rockets for more effective saturation attacks and counter fire.
Low end Examples include Bukang Liwayway, BM-21, BM-21PD, BM-21V, Grad-1, Sakr-18, Sakr-36, LARS, LARS 2, Firios, Teruel, MAR-290, LAR-160, LRSV-122, Kung Feng, M-63, RM-70, RM-70/85, APR-21 and APR-40.
High end examples include K136, K136A1, KRL-122, M-1985, Fajir-3, ASTROS-II, TOS-1, BM-27, M-77, M-87, Type 75, MARS, M270, Golan-1000, SLAM, Prima, Heidar-44, HM20, HM23, Zelzal-2, Type 81, Type 89, Type 90 and WS-1
Electronic fire control systems
Vacuum tube electronics
Telescopic sights
Optical rangefinders
Radio communication systems with C2
Fin stabilised Munitions
Effective firing range of 1-40 km
CEP of <10m at 1-6km
3rd Generation Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
Date built 1999-2024
First to last Pinaka Mark I to TOS-3
Goats being TOS-1A and BM-21-2B17
Are of the same unguided feature but have fully digital control systems and ability to use global navigation systems and SATCOMS to accurately set down saturation attacks in conjunction with other systems spread out.
Low end examples include Bateleur FV2, LRSVM Morava, R-Han 122, Thunderbolt-2000, Pinaka Mark I, T-122 Sakarya, JDS Multiple Cradle Launcher, BM-21-2B17, TOS-1A, Type 90A, Type 90B, Sakr-45, BM-21K, Bastion-1, Bastion-2, WR-40, RS-122 and RM-70/85M
High end examples include 9К512 Uragan-U, 9A53-G Tornado, TOS-2, TOS-3, Type 21, PHZ-11, PHL-11, Bastion-3, Bureviy, Berest, Verba and RM-70V
Solid state computer systems
Laser rangefinders
Automatic Target laying
Effective firing range of 1-60km
CEP of <10m at 5-10 km
Fully digital FCS
Global navigation for better Unguided salvos
Digital VHF radio systems with SATCOMS with C2IS or C3I capability for coordinating fire and SMR CC2 or CC3
Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
First GMLRS system was the soviet BM-30 which was a multiple launch system that fired simple internally guided Munitions.
Multiple launch guided rockets with ranges at over 400 km are classified as missile launchers.
1st Generation Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
Date built 1987-2023
First to last BM-30 to Fajr-5C
Goats being BM-30
Were early guided Rockets with laser guidance or early INS guidance, usually quite inaccurate relative to modern standards.
Examples include Fajr-5C, Zelzal-3, WS-1B, BM-30 and PHL-96.
Internally guided Munitions
Electronic fire control systems
Digital navigation system
Digital targeting system
Solid state computers
Digital VHF radio systems with C3
Effective firing ranges up to 90 km
CEPs of <30-70m at 40 km
2nd Generation Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
Date built 2000-2020
First to last TRG-300 to WS-64
Goats being Tornado-S and HIMARS
Age of modern systems with fully digital FCS, SATCOMS and satellite guided Munitions.
Low end examples include Polonez, EXTRA, TRG-230, TRG-300, LAR-160, LRU, LAROM, M270A1, M270B1, M270AD, MARS II, PULS, Pinaka Mark II, Vilkha, 9К512 Uragan-1M, KN-09, PHL-03, SR-7, AR-100, WM-40, WM-80, WS-2, WS-2B, WS-2C and WS-2D
High End examples include Šumadija, M270A2, HIMARS, 9A53-S Tornado, 9A52-4 Tornado, PHL-16, WM-120, WS-3, WS-3A, WS-22, WS-32, WS-43, WS-63 and WS-64
SATCOM systems for coordinating battlespace
Effective firing range up to 200 km
CEP's of <1-10m at 50-200 km
Global navigation systems
Satellite guided Munitions
Digital displays with C2IS software
Fully digital FCS
Surface to Air Missile Launchers
These are ground and naval based SAMs. The Germans created the world's first operational SAM system, the Wasserfall in 1943 and followed it up with Enzian and Rheintochter.
The Swiss created the world's first mass produced SAM system with the RSA and the US improved it. Beyond the 70s from then till 90s, innovation in SAMs has largely been led by the Russians and Americans.
1st Generation Surface to Air Missile Launchers
Date built 1943-1964
First to Last Wasserfall to HQ-1
Goats being S-75 and HQ-2
Are early generation anti air missile systems that usually use manual radio waves for guidance and early monopulse radar systems for searching, typically inaccurate at any range beyond short.
Low end examples include Wasserfall, Rheintochter, Enzian, Brakemine, RSA and RSD-58
High end examples include Seaslug, HQ-1, MIM-3 Nike Ajax, RIM-2A, RIM-2B, RIM-2C, RIM-2D, Volkhov-M, S-25, S-25M, S-75, S-75D, S-75V and S-75AK
MCLOS command guidance
Radar Beam riding
Overload tolerance between 1-8g
Probability of kill 0.2-0.6
Missile reaction time of 20-60 seconds
Electronic fire control systems
Vacuum Tube Electronics
CRT A/B-Scope Radar Display
Can detect an RCS of ~0.01m² at <20 km and lock on to RCS of ~0.1m² at <10 km
Missile ranges of 10-80 km and can extend up to 200 km
Flight ceiling up to 20 km
Pulse timing fire control systems with 2D mono pulse search Radar with ranges up to 200 km
2nd Generation Surface to Air Missile Launchers
Date built 1955-1983
First to Last RIM-8 to Hawk-II
Goats being Osa and Hawk
2nd Gen are more upgraded systems with better guidance with basic countermeasures and ECM resistance, but were still quite inaccurate at ranges beyond ~60 km for long range systems and needed very skilled operators.
Examples include HQ-4, M1 Volna, M1 Volna-M, M-11 Shtorm, S-75M, S-75SM, S-125, S-125M, S-200A, S-200D, Krug, Krug-M, Krug-M1, Osa, Kub, Kub-M, Kvadrat, RIM-2E, RIM-2F, RIM-8A, RIM-8B, RIM-8C, RIM-8D, RIM-8E, RIM-8F, RIM-8G, RIM-8F, RIM-8J, RIM-50, RIM-50A, RIM-55A, MIM-14A Nike Hercules, MIM-14B Nike Hercules, MIM-14C Nike Hercules, MIM-23A Hawk, MIM-23B Hawk-I, Sea Dart, Bomarc, R-25 Vulkan, Masurca, Thunderbird, Bloodhound, HQ-2 and HQ-3
High end examples include MIM-23C Hawk-II, RIM-66A, RIM-66B, RIM-7A, RIM-7E, RIM-7H, M1 Volna-P, Kub-M1, Kub-M2, Kub-M3, Krug-M2, Osa-AK, Osa-AKM, Osa-M, S-125M1, S-200M, S-200V, S-200VE, and S-200VE
Semi Active radar guidance
SACLOS command guidance
Continuous wave seekers
Midcourse uplink
Overload tolerance between 5-15g
Probability of kill 0.4-0.8
Home on jam ability
Max head on Intercept up to mach 2
Electronic counter countermeasures (ECCM)
Identity friend for systems (IFF)
Vacuum tube computer systems
Multi target Tracking (4+)
Missile reaction time of 15-50 seconds
Can detect an RCS of ~0.001m² at <40 km and lock on to RCS of ~0.01m² at <20 km
C2 hubs with radio stations and command systems
Missile Ranges of 10-100 km and can extend up to 300 km.
Flight ceiling up to ~30 km
Electro optical targeting
CRT B/K-Scope Radar Displays with PPI search display
Continuous wave fire control radar control system with max detection ranges up to 200 km with 2D dual frequency monopulse search Radar with ranges up to 300 km
3rd Generation Surface to Air Missile Launchers
Date built 1973-2009
First to Last S-300 to Akash
Goats being S-300 and Buk
Era of modern SAM systems had begun, they greatly improved upon surface to air missiles, using guidance systems such as Track via missile or improved command guidance in combination with semi Active radar guidance with more powerful Phased array FC radars with multiple 3D search frequency radars, along with far greater hit probabilities and massively improved ranges with definitive kill ranges, can also track and fire at numerous targets.
Low end examples include M1 Volna-N, M-11 Shtorm-M, Uragan, Shtil, Kinzhal, Klinock, Gang Gange, Buk, Buk-M1, Tor, Tor-M, S-75M3, S-125PM, S-200C, S-300, S-300F, S-300P, S-300PS, S-300PT, S-300PT1, S-300PT1A, S-300PM, S-300PMU, S-300V1, Sea Wolf, RIM-7M, RIM-66C, RIM-66D, RIM-66E, RIM-66F, RIM-66G, RIM-66H, RIM-66J, RIM-66K1-2, RIM-66L1-4, RIM-66M1-4, RIM-67A, RIM-67B, RIM-67C, RIM-67D, MIM-104A Patriot, MIM-104B Patriot PAC-1, MIM-104C Patriot PAC-2, MIM-23D Hawk-III, MIM-23E Hawk-III, MIM-23F Hawk-III, MIM-23G Hawk-III, MIM-23H Hawk-III, MIM-23I Hawk-III, MIM-23J Hawk-III, MIM-23K Hawk-III, MIM-23L Hawk-III, MIM-23M Hawk-III, KN-06, Sky Bow I, Type 81, LY-60, HQ-2A, HQ-2B, HQ-6A and HQ-18
High end examples include KS-1A, KS-1C, KS-1M, FD-2000, HQ-7B, HQ-9, HQ-9A, HHQ-9, HQ-12, HQ-17, HQ-61, HQ-64, KS-1, Ezh, Yozh, Tor-M1, Buk-M1-2, S-300PM1, S-300PM2, S-300PMU1, S-300PMU2, S-300FM, S-300V2, Osa-AKM-P1, Osa-1T, Pechora-2, Pechora-2M, Newa-SC, NASAMS, Akash, Mersad, Raad, Sayyad-1, Fajr-8, Raad-1, Tabas, Herz-9, Ya Zahra-3, MIM-104D Patriot PAC-2 GEM, MIM-104E Patriot PAC-2 GEM-T and Sky Bow II
Track Via Missile Guidance
ACLOS command guidance for shorads
Command guidance with semi active radar homing and INS midcourse uplink
Multi Tracking (10-40 per full battery)
Multi lock (2-10 per full battery)
Multi firing (2-24 per full battery)
Track whilst scanning radar
Digitised FCS
Digital missile data link
Inverse monopulse radar seekers
Improved ECCM capabilities with anti ARM capabilities
Overload tolerance between 10-30g
Probability of kill 0.6-0.8
Missile reaction times of 10-20 seconds
Maximum target velocity up to Mach 6
Missile speeds up to Mach 4
Solid state electronics
CRT Improved PPI Radar Displays
8-16x bit Digital Computers
Missile Ranges of 10-200 km
Flight ceiling up to ~40 km
Satellite communications
Electro optical targeting
Radar data fusion
Links to EW systems
C2 hubs utilising digital radios and mission control computers with CRT displays connected by digital data link with encryption
Can detect an RCS of ~0.0001m² at <10 km and lock on to RCS of ~0.1m² at <60 km
PESA fire control radar with max detection ranges up to 300 km and PESA search radars up to 400 km
4th Generation Surface to Air Missile Launchers
Date built 1997-2024
First to Last Patriot PAC-3 to Arman
Goats being S-400 and Buk-M2
Seen as today's modern systems, Massively improved systems that use active radar homing systems with improved command guidance with improved phased array fire control radars with multi frequency 3D search radars and can use systems such as low probability of intercept radar and improved data link capabilities.
Low end examples include S-300VM, S-300VM1, S-300VM2, S-300V4, S-400, Tor-M2K, Tor-M2E, Tor-M2KM, Buk-M2, Buk-M2E, Buk-M2EK, Antey 2500, Antey-4000, Ural, Shtil, Stilet, HQ-9B, HQ-9P, HHQ-9B, HQ-11, HQ-16A, HQ-17, HQ-17A, HQ-17AE, HQ-16B, HHQ-16, HQ-17A, HQ-22, FK-3, LY-70, LY-80, FD-2000B, FM-2000, FM-3000, RIM-66M5-11, RIM-66N-1, RIM-161A, RIM-161B, RIM-161C, RIM-162, RIM-156A, RIM-156B, MIM-104F Patriot PAC-3, NASAMS-2, Aster 15, Aster 30, Crotale MK3, Skyguard II, IRIS-T SLM, IRIS-T SL, Arman, Bavar-373, Khordad-15, Khordad-3, Kamin-2, Zubin, Talash, ASRAD-HELLAS, LVRBS-98, VL MICA, ASRAD-R, SANTAL, SPADA, RBS-23, Hawk-XXI, Aspide 2000, SPYDER-SR, SPYDER-MR, Umkhonto, Arrow 2, Iron Dome, MPCV, Type 11, IDAS and VL-SRSAM
High end examples include Barak 8, Type 03, Morfey, Smerch, Hermes-K, Tor-M2D2, Tor-E2, Buk-M3, Shtil-1, Redut, S-350, S-350E, Sky Dragon 12, Sky Dragon 50, Sky Dragon 100, Sky Dragon 150, HQ-9C, HQ-16C, HQ-16FE, HQ-22B, Aster 30 Block 1B, SAMP/T, MIM-104F Patriot PAC-3 MSE, THAAD, MEADS, Hisar-A, Hisar-O, MR-SAM, XR-SAM, K-SAAM, KM-SAM Block 1, KM-SAM Block 2, NASAMS-3, RIM-174, RIM-161D, RIM-162, Skyguard III, Sky Bow III and Akash NG.
Low Probability of Intercept Radar (LPIR)
Improved ECCM systems
Command guidance with active radar homing with INS/GNS midcourse uplink
Multi Tracking (60-200 per full battery)
Multi lock (30-50 per full battery)
Multi firing (50-80 per full battery)
Probability of kill 0.7-0.9
Fully Digital fire control
Global navigation systems
On board missile computers
Overload tolerance between 15-40g
32x bit Digital computer systems
LCD Digital search radar displays
Full HD resolution EOTS with SD FLIR
C2 hubs with digital displays and computers utilising C2IS software and C3I communication systems
Multi radar link with modern fully digital data link with high end FHSS to extra search radars, AEW&C or fighters
Sensor fusion
Missile reaction time of 6-10 seconds
System reaction time of 30-40 seconds
Improved Radar and Infrared Detection
Maximum target velocity up to Mach 14
Missile speeds up to Mach 6
Missile Ranges of 10-400 km and can extend up to 700 km
Flight ceiling up to ~50 km
Can detect an RCS of ~0.0001m² at <60 km and lock on to RCS of ~0.1m² at <100 km
Digital AESA or hybrid PESA fire control radar with max detection ranges up to 400 km and AESA or Hybrid PESA search radar with max detection ranges up to 700 km
5th Generation Surface to Air Missiles
Date Built 2017-2025
First to last David's Sling to HQ-29
Goats being David's Sling
The most advanced systems in date, the expensive cost of such long range systems (~$2-3b for a long range system full battery) likely means they're just for destroying supersonic Bombers, stealth bombers, AEW&C Aircraft, ICBMs and satellites.
Examples include CAMM, Land Ceptor, Sky Sabre, Sea Ceptor, HQ-19, HQ-29, Arrow 3, David's Sling and S-500.
With prototype programs being SAMP/T Block 2, Arrow 4, KM-SAM Block 3 and THAAD-ER.
Multi Tracking (200-400 per full battery)
Multi lock (50-90 per full battery)
Multi firing (50-120 per full battery)
Dual band AESA seeker
Advanced ECCM systems
Advanced ECM systems
Probability of kill 0.9+
Multi radar link
Incredibly fast acceleration
Improved Lock on after launch
64x bit Digital Computers
Missile reaction times of ~3-5 Seconds
Missile speeds up to Mach 11
Maximum target velocity up to Mach 18
Overload tolerance between 20-50g
UHD resolution EOTS with HD resolution FLIR
Can detect an RCS of ~0.0001m² at <100 km and lock on to RCS of ~0.1m² at <300 km
Full Sensor fusion
Major C2 command hubs utilising C4ISR software
Missile Ranges of 10-600 km and can extend up to 3,000 km
Flight ceiling up to ~200 km
GaN AESA fire control radar with max detection ranges up to 700 km and 3D VHF to X band frequency GaN AESA search radars with search ranges up to 2,000km
Anti Tank Guided Missile Launchers
These are guided anti-tank missiles, the first operational ATGM was the X-7 created in nazi Germany however it wasn't until the french SS.10 that it became mass produced. Many countries have made Innovations with these, the American TOW set the standard.
1st Generation ATGMs
Date built 1944-1979
First to last X-7 to HJ-73
Goats being Cobra and Malyutka
Early ATGMs that required full manual guidance.
Low end Examples include X-7, Bulsae-1, 3M11 Fleyta, 3M6 Shmel, 9M14 Malyutka, Susong-Po, Vigilant, Malkara, Cobra, Cobra 2000, I-RAAD, SS.10, ENTAC, MGM-21A, MGM-32A, Mosquito and RB-53
High end examples include Mathogo 1, Mathogo 2, Mamba, 9M17 Falanga, 9M17M Falanga-M, 9M14M Malyutka-M, Taifun 9M15 and HJ-73
MCLOS guidance
Wire Guided
Shaped charges with HEAT
Effective firing ranges from 1 to 3 km
100-500mm pen of RHA
2nd Generation ATGMs
Date built 1964-2012
First to last Shillelagh to Nimrod
Goats being Fagot and TOW
SACLOS guidance changed the game, allowing for much more accurate hits, with the TOW and Fagot setting the gold standard for all future ATGMs.
Low end examples include BGM-71A TOW, BGM-71B TOW, BGM-71C TOW, FGM-77A Dragon, 9M120 Ataka, 9M120M Ataka, 9M120D Ataka, 9M17P Falanga-P, 9M17MP Falanga-P, 9M112 Kobra, 9M112M Kobra, 9M112M2 Kobra, 9M124 Kobra-M, 3M7 Drakon, 9P135 Fagot, 9P135M Fagot, 9M113 Konkurs, 9K115 Metis, 9M14P Malyutka-P, 9M14P1 Malyutka-P, 9M14MP1 Malyutka-P, 9M14-2 Malyutka-2, 9M114 Kokon, 9M114M1 Kokon, 9M114M2 Kokon, Amogha-I, HOT, MILAN, MILAN 2, MILAN 2T, Saeghe, Toophan-1, Toophan-2, Tosan-1, Bulsae-2, Type 79, HJ-73A, HJ-73B, HJ-73C, HJ-8A, HJ-8B and I-RAAD-T
High end examples include BGM-71D TOW-2, BGM-71E TOW-2A, FGM-77B Dragon II, FGM-77C Dragon III, 9K115-2 Metis-M, 9K115-2 Metis-M1, 9M14-2M Malyutka-2M, 9M14-2P Malyutka-2P, 9M113M Konkurs-M, 9N131M1 Konkurs-M, 9N131M2-1 Konkurs-M, 9P135M1 Fagot-M, 9P135M2 Fagot-M, 9P135M3 Fagot-M, 9S451M2 Fagot-M, 9M128 Agona, 9K113M Shturm-VM, 9M120-1 Ataka, Amogha-II, Toophan-2M, Toophan-3, Toophan-4, RBS 56 BILL, Bumbar, Eryx, MILAN 3, MILAN-3ER and HJ-8C, HJ-8D, HJ-8E, HJ-8L and HJ-8H
Qualifying criteria
Wire guided
Radio-guided
Infrared guided
Radar Beam riding
SACLOS guidance
Telescopic Optical Sights
1st or 2nd Gen Night Vision
Improved shaped charges
Effective firing ranges from 3 to 6 km
500-900mm pen of RHA
3rd Generation ATGMs
Date built 1979-2019
First to last 9M117 Bastion to RK-2P
Goats being Kornet and Refleks
Laser Beam riding missiles with tandem shaped charges allowed for much greater pens and accuracy. These are seen as frontline ATGMs.
Examples include Cirit, RBS 56B BILL 2, AGM-114A Hellfire, AGM-114B Hellfire, AGM-114C Hellfire, AGM-114F Hellfire, AGM-114FA Hellfire, BGM-71F TOW-2B, 9M127-1 Ataka-VM, 9K121 Vikhr, 9K121M Vikhr-M, 9K120 Svir, 9K119 Refleks, 9M117 Bastion, 9M117M Kan, Type 87, Ingwe, Sadid-365, Toophan-5, Tondar, Dehlavieh, MAPATS, Cirit, ZT3 Ingwe, Shershen, LAHAT and MSS-1.2
High end examples include AGM-114K Hellfire II, AGM-114K2 Hellfire II, AGM-114 K2A Hellfire II, RK-2P, RK-2POF, 9M133 Kornet, 9K119M Invar, 9M119M1 Invar-M, 9M117M1 Arkan, 9M123 Khrizantema, 9M123F-2 Khrizantema, SAMHO, Corsar, Toophan-6 HJ-9, HJ-11 and HJ-9B
Qualifying criteria
Laser beam riding
SACLOS guidance
Tandem-charge shaped Warheads
Solid state electronics
Top attack capabilities
3rd Gen Night Vision
1st Gen Thermals
Electro optical targeting system
Effective firing ranges from 6 to 10 km
500-1,200mm pen of RHA
4th Generation ATGMs
Date built 1986 to 2020
First to last Konkurs-R to Javelin F
Goats being Javelin and NLAW.
These are largely just upgrades to the guidance systems. These are seen as frontline ATGMs.
Low end examples include Brimstone, Sprinter, 9M123-2 Khrizantema, 9M133M Kornet-M, 9M133M Kornet-EM, 9A1472 Vikhr-1, Hermes, PARS 3 LR, AGM-114L Hellfire LongBow, FGM-148A Javelin, FGM-148B Javelin, FGM-148C Javelin, FGM-148D Javelin, FGM-172 SRAW, Mokopa, Stugna-P, Amogha-III, Spike-SR, Spike-MR, Spike-LR, Spike-ER, Type 01, MOSKIT, Pirat, TANOK, Almas, Enforcer, QN-202, CM-501G and HJ-9A.
High end examples include LMUR, X-UAV, Sokol-1, 9M123 Khrizantema-M, 9M123 Khrizantema-VM, FGM-148E Javelin, FGM-148F Javelin, FGM-148G Javelin, AT-1K, Spike-ER II, Terminator, MPATGM, NLAW, HJ-10, HJ-11 and HJ-12
Tandem-charge shaped Warheads
Fire and forget
Soft launching
Infrared homing
Radar guided ACLOS
Laser guided ACLOS
PLOS system
2nd Gen Thermal imaging tracker
Improved Digital EOTS
Effective firing ranges from 6 to 20 km
500-1,200mm pen of RHA
5th Generation ATGMs
Date built 2015-2023
First to last Kh-39 to HJ-18
Goats being Akeron MP and Kh-39
Most sophisticated systems in use with ECCM systems and multi seeker technology allowing excellent range, pen and resistance to jamming.
Examples include AGM-119, Akeron MP, Karaok, UMTAS, OMTAS, L-UMTAS, Kh-39, HJ-16, HJ-18, and Spike LR2.
Passive dual band technology
Counter armour protection systems (CAPS)
Omni use twin warheads
ECCM capabilities
Infrared homing
Fire and forget
Lock-on after launch
Active Radar homing
Infrared Imaging homing
Predicted line of sight
Two way data link
4th Gen Night Vision
2nd or 3rd Gen Thermals
Improved Tandem-charge shaped Warheads
Effective firing ranges from 8 to 30 km
900-1,500mm pen of RHA
Man Portable Anti Tank Rocket Launchers
These are unguided anti tank missiles, first evidence of working anti tank rocket launchers, was the one created in 1931 by Soviets called BS-Petropavlovskogo but first actually mass produced was British PIAT. The RPG-7 set the standard for all Manpats.
1st Generation Manpats
Date built 1942-1954
First to last PIAT to RPG-2
Goats being Panzerfaust and Bazooka.
Original anti armour rocket launchers made during the second world war.
Examples include M42 Carl Gustaf, Bazooka, Panzerschreck, Panzerfaust, PIAT, Buzogányvető, Type 4 , RPG-1 and RPG-2
Qualifying criteria
HEAT Rounds
100-300m effective firing range
Manual sights
50-400mm pen of RHA up to 300m
2nd Generation Manpats
Date built 1959-2012
First to last RPG-7 to RPG-30
Goats being M72 LAW and RPG-7
The RPG-7 set the gold standard for all Manpats to come, so much so its design has influenced copies and inspirations from USA to Europe to China.
Low end examples include RPG-7, RPG-18, RPG-26, RPG-27, M72 LAW, M202, M80 Zolja, Type 69, Type 78, MK-153 M1/2 Carl Gustaf, Wasp 58, Sarpac, LRAC F1, AC-300, DARD 120, LAW 80, Viper and Panzerfaust 2
High end examples include Type 11, Type 89, Type 98, RPG-7V2, RPG-28, RPG-29, RPG-75, RPG-76, RPG-30, RPG-32, AT4, C90, M3 Carl Gustaf, APILAS, Armbrust, Kestrel, LRAC, Panzerfaust 3, SMAW and B-300
HESH rounds
Improved HEAT rounds or Tandem shaped
Telescopic sights
1st and 2nd Gen Night vision
500m to 1km effective firing range
500-900mm pen of RHA at 1km
3rd Generation Manpats
Date built 1998-2023
First being Alcotán-100 to RGW 110
Modern rocket launchers with fire control systems, better launchers and better munitions.
Examples include RPG-29M, RGW-90, RGW-110, SMAW-II, Raptor, Type 98A, M3E1 MAAWS, M4 Carl Gustaf and Alcotán-100.
HEAT rounds
HESH rounds
3rd or 4th Gen night vision
1st/2nd Gen thermals
Digital sights
Digital FCS
Partially guided Munitions
Laser rangefinders
1-2 km effective Firing ranges
Tandem shaped charges
RAP with far greater accuracy than Munitions.
700-1,000mm pen of RHA at 2 km
Man Portable Air Defence Missile Launchers and Very Short Range Air Defence Systems
Portable anti air systems, the world's first was the Fliegerfaust in 1945 created by the Germans. The first full mass produced version was created by Americans in the early 60s However later innovations have been dominated by European countries.
1st Generation Manpads
Date built 1945-1987
First to last Fliegerfaust to CA-94.
Goats being Strela-2 and HN-5.
1st Generation VSHORADs
Date built 1963-1971
First to last mauler to Strela-1M
Goats being Strela-1M and Chaparral A
Early systems were generally inaccurate and required rear lock-on or full manual guidance.
Low end examples include Mauler, Chaparral A, FIM-43A Redeye, 9K31 Strela-1, 9K32 Strela-2, CA-94, CA-95, Blowpipe and HN-5.
High end examples include CA-94M, FIM-43B Redeye, FIM-43C Redeye, FIM-43D Redeye, Ayn al Saqr, Hwasung-Chong, 9K31M Strela-1M and 9K32M Strela-2M.
Qualifying criteria
PbS sensor
Spin scanning
Linear scanning
Uncooled seekers
Radio guided MCLOS
Rear aspect tracking
Max engagement range up to 2 km
Flight ceiling up to 1 km
2nd Generation Manpads
Date built 1973 to 1986
First to last Strela-3 to HN-5B
Goats being Strela-3 and Stinger A
2nd Generation VSHORADs
Date built 1970-1986
First to last Roland to HN-5C
Goats being Strela-10 and Chaparral C
The Strela-3, set the standard for future Manpads with all side tracking and better guidance.
Low end examples include CA-95M1, Chaparral C, Javelin, Anza Mk-I, HN-5B, 9K34 Strela-3, Strela-10, Strela-10M1, Strela-10M2 and Rapier.
High end examples include Roland, FIM-92A Stinger, QW-1, HN-5C, 9K310 Igla-1, 9K310E Igla-1E and Strela-10M3
Qualifying criteria
Conical scanning
InSb sensor
LN² Cooled seekers
Radio guided SACLOS
All aspect tracking in limited conditions
Max engagement range up to 4 km
Flight ceiling up to 2 km
3rd Generation Manpads
Date built 1977-2024
First to last RBS-70 to Martlet
Goats being Igla and Stingers
3rd Generation VSHORADs
Date built 1976-2019
First to last 2K22 to ZU-23-ZOM1
Goats being 2K22 and Strela-10M4
Better seekers and FCS allowing for much greater accuracy, with IFF systems. Currently used as frontline Manpads.
Low end examples include M6 Linebacker, ADATS, M-SHORAD, AN/TWQ-1, Chaparral G, ZUR-23-2KG, ZU-23-ZOM1, 2K22, 2K22M, ZSU-23-4M4, ZSU-23-4MP Biała, Kashtan, Strela-10M4, Mala Narew, Ozelot, Fennek-92, CA-94M, Stormer HVM, Stryker M, LAV-AD, Starstreak, Rapier 2000, 9K38 Igla, Grom, RBS-70, Mistral, RIM-116A, RIM-116B, FIM-92B Stinger, FIM-92C Stinger, FIM-92D Stinger, HT-16PGJ, QW-1M, FN-6, FN-6A, FB-6A, Starburst, Starstreak LML, Anza Mk-II, Misagh-1 and Misagh-2
High end examples include Crotale, RBS-70MK2, MPDMS, Martlet, Type 91, Type 04A, Type 09, Type 95, Type 625, CS/SA5, Mistral 2, Mistral SATCP, Mistral ATLAS, RIM-116C, FIM-92E Stinger, FIM-92F Stinger, FIM-92G Stinger, FIM-92H Stinger, FIM-92J Stinger, FIM-92K Stinger, MADIS RWS, Misagh-3, 9K338 Igla-S, 9K338E Igla-SE, KP-SAM, K30 Biho, Anza Mk-III, HQ-7, HHQ-7, QW-2, QW-12, QW-18, QW-19, NH-6, FB-6C, FN-16, HN-6 and FN-M
Qualifying criteria
Rosette scanning
Crossed array scanning
NIR/UV dual band
HgCdTe sensor
Laser guided SACLOS
Solid state electronics
All aspect tracking in all conditions
Infrared Counter Countermeasures (IRCCM)
Max engagement range up to 6 km
Flight ceiling up to 3 km
Night Vision tracking sight
IFF systems
4th Generation Manpads
Date built 2007-2023
First to last Type 91K to QW-4
Goats being Verba
4th Generation VSHORADs
Date built 1990-2023
First to last Crotale NG to Sosna-R
Goats being Gibka-S and Strela-10M4
Major advancements over 3rd Gen with improved seekers and better FCS and ECCM systems.
Low end examples include HQ-7B, HHQ-7B, HQ-10, HHQ-10, Crotale NG, FIM-92E Stinger Block II, Type 91K, QW-3, PSR-A Pilica, Pantsir-S1, Pantsir-S1M, Pantsir-SA, Pantsir-M, Poprad, VSHORAD, Mistral 3, 9K333 Verba, 2K22M1 and Strela-10M4
High end examples include MBDA-VSHORAD, Palash, Pantsir-S2, MML, Sosna-R, FL-3000N, QW-4, RB-70NG and Sungur.
Qualifying criteria
Focal plane array seekers
Multi spectral optical seekers
2D imaging systems
MIR/NIR/UV Tri band
HgCdTe sensor
ECCM capabilities
Thermal imager tracker
Automatic target tracker
Laser guided ACLOS
Radar guided ACLOS
Max engagement range up to 10 km
Flight ceiling up to 5 km
Reaction control system for IR missiles
Lock on after launch
Jargon Section for Armoured Fighting Vehicles and Tanks.
The following is the jargon for equipment.
Infrared Imaging
Night Vision
Composite Armour
ERA
GLATGM
HEAT rounds
Sabots
Primary Gun
C2 Systems
Hard Kill APS
Soft kill APS
Guided Artillery
1st Generation Guided Artillery
These were early guided Shells that utilised early laser homing or early IR homing or early satellite navigation, they had CEPs up to <20m for ranges up to 50 km and CEPs up to <10m for ranges up to 10 km.
Examples include 3F5 Smel'chak, Krasnopol, Krasnopol-M, GP1, GP4, M712 Copperhead, M1156, M982 Excalibur, XM395, Basir, BONUS and SMArt 155
2nd Generation Guided Artillery
These are the current modern standard, they utilise more advanced laser homing combined with fully digital internal navigation systems or utilise satellite navigation, they have CEPs of <1m for ranges up to 50 km and CEPs of <10m for ranges up to 100 km
Examples include KM-8 Gran, Kitolov-2, Krasnopol-2M, Krasnopol-D, GP6, GP9, WS-35 and M892A1 Excalibur.
Gun launched anti tank guided missile
1st Generation GLATGM
Radio or radar guided SACLOS with 400-600mm pen of RHA with effective firing ranges of 2-4 km.
Examples include Shillelagh, Kobra, Kobra-M, Agona and Drakon
2nd Generation GLATGM
Laser beam riding SACLOS missile with tandem shaped charges giving 700-1000mm pen of RHA with effective firing ranges of 4-8 km.
Examples include STAFF, Svir, Refleks, Invar, Invar-M, Bastion, Kastet, Kan, Arkan, SAMHO, Falarick, Kombat, LAHAT, GP105 and Spear
3rd Generation GLATGM
Millimeter wave or laser beam riding ACLOS or infrared homing fire and forget missiles with tandem shaped charges giving 1000-1500mm pen of RHA with effective firing ranges of 10-15 km.
Examples include Polynege, MRM-CE, KSTAM, Sokol-1, Sprinter and Excalibur
Sabots
Pen Numbers are at 2 km for APFSDS.
1st and 2nd Gen cross over a lot.
1st Generation Sabots
These are armour piercing discarding sabots (APDS) or armour piercing high explosive (APHE) or APC or APCBC with pens up to ~100mm with an effective firing range up to ~1 km.
Examples include BR-412, L22, L28A1, L36A1, M392A1,
2nd Generation Sabots
100-300mm pen of RHA at 0°
hyper-velocity armour-piercing discarding-sabot round (HV-APDS)
armour piercing fin stabilised discarding sabots (APFSDS)
Maraging Steel penetrators with tungsten plugs
1-2 km effective firing range
Examples include M735, M735A1, M774, OFL-105-G2, OFL-105-G3, OFL-105-F1, DM13, DM23, M426, M429, 3BM26, 3BM22, 3BM20, 3BM15, 3BM6, 3BM11, 3BM3, 3BM-3, 3BM-4, 3BM-6, M392A2
3rd Generation Sabots
Full alloy Tungsten APFSDS
DU APFSDS
300-500mm pen of RHA at 0°
100-200mm pen of RHA at 60°
2-3 km effective Firing range
Examples include 3BM42, 3BM42M, 3BM32, BD36-2, 3BM-21, 3BM-28, 3BM-36, OFL-120-G1, 125-I, BTA2, DTW2, DTW-125, DM33, M833, M829, M829A1, M829A2, M9718, M900A1, M1001, NR331, C127, C-437, NP105A2, K270, K273, Type 93, P1A1, APFS/DS, FSAPDS, IRAN APFSDS-T,
4th Generation Sabots
Fully heat treated Tungsten APFSDS
Full composite DU APFSDS
300-600mm pen of RHA at 60°
700-900mm pen of RHA at 0°
2-4 km effective Firing range
Examples include 3BM42-2, 3BM48, 3BM59, 3BM60, DTW-125-I, DTW-125-II, TAPNA, M1150, M1080, M321, M322, M338, M428, M1050, M1060A1, M1060A2, M1060A3, M1060CV, M829A3, M829A4, DM53, DM63, DM43A1, OFL-120-F1, OFL-120-F2, OFL-105-F2, T-2, K276, K279, K274, K274N, Pz-531, 3BM-21M, HP105A2M, C-512, XC127, L23A1, L23A2, L26A1, L27A1, FSAPDS 2
5th Generation Sabots
DU break of tip APFSDS
Composite tungsten APFSDS
Extended length penetrator
1000-1400mm pen of RHA at 0°
600-900mm of pen of RHA at 60°
3-6 km effective Firing range
Examples include DTW-125-III, 3BM69, 3BM70, AKE-T, SHARD, KE2020 and DM73
High Explosive Anti Tank rounds
1st Generation HEAT rounds.
Early shaped charges with up to ~300mm pen of RHA and effective firing range up to ~1 km.
Examples include 3BM8, OCC-105-F1, M88, M456,
2nd Generation HEAT rounds
Tandem shaped charges with better minerals to maximise the metal jet penetrator with 400-800mm of RHA and effective firing range up to ~2 km.
Examples include Material B, 3VBK7, 3VBK10, 3BK12M, 3BK14M, 3VBK16, 3VBK17, 3BK18, 3VBK19, DM12, OCC-120-G1, M456A1, M830, M325, K277, DTP1A, L51, CH-105-MZ,
3rd Generation HEAT rounds
Triple charge Tandem shaped charges with pens of 900-1200mm of RHA at 0° angle with effective firing range up to ~4 km.
Examples include OECC-120-F1, M456A2, DM12A1, M830A1, 3VBK21, K280 and MOD 310
Tank Stabilizers
Basic Stabilisation
These were early stabilisers usually just hydraulic or mechanical with max turret rotation speeds up to 18 deg/s and 3 deg/s vertical gun elevation speeds.
Examples include 2E28 and M103A3
Modern Stabilisation
These set the current standard with electronically assisted hydraulic or mechanical stabilisation enabling max turret rotation speeds up to 35 deg/s and 9 deg/s vertical gun elevation speeds.
Examples include WNA-H22 and 2E42.
Advanced Stabilisation
The most modern in use, with digitally assisted or fully digital mechanical stabilisation enabling max turret rotation speeds up to 45 deg/s and 15 deg/s vertical gun elevation speeds.
Examples include 2E58 and 2E60.
Primary Guns
There are intermediate guns like the 2A46 or M68E1 which can be seen as 1+ and 2A46M-2 and L30A1 can be seen as 2+.
1st Generation Primary Gun
These came around post war and introduced many features.
Examples include L11A1, L11A2, L11A3, 2A20, 2A46, D-10T, D-10TG, D-10T2S, M68, M68E1, L7A1, L7A2, L7A3, ZPL-79 and ZPL-81A
~200 charges
~80mm+ calibre
2nd Generation Primary Gun
These set the new standard.
Examples include ZPL-83A, ZPL-94, ZPL-98, ZPL-98A, ZPT-98, M256, M68A1E4, M68A1, KM256, Rh-120 L/44, Rh-120 L/55, 2A46M, 2A46M-1, 2A46M-2, KBA-3, L7A4, L11A5, L30A1, CN120-25, CN120-26 and IMI 120
~1500+ mp/s muzzle velocity
120mm+ caliber
500+ charges
400+ mpa max gun pressure
8+ rpm max fire rate
Standard MRS
Thermal sleeve
Integrated barrel sensors
3rd Generation Primary Gun
The most advanced guns.
Examples include XM360, Rh-130, 2A82-1M, 2A83 and ASCALON
~1500+ charges
~130mm+ calibre
~2000+ mp/s muzzle velocity
800+ mpa max gun pressure
12+ rpm max fire rate
Dynamic MRS
Data link
Infrared Imaging
There is some great confusion over what defines thermals, especially 2nd and 3rd with many people thinking its just resolution which isn't true as Cathrerine FC and OPHELIOS-P both have higher resolutions than KLW-1 yet are only 2nd Gen whilst KLW-1 is 3rd.
Without a doubt France makes the best infrared imaging systems. Their matrices are used by the US, UK, Russia, China, Germany and so on.
There is no actual universally agreed upon definition on what defines thermal Generations, there are three common versions.
Device
Gen 1 = vector detectors, usually containing 64 or
more elements. With a two dimensional mechanical image scanner.
Gen 2 = Sub matrices introduced with TDI added with two dimension scanning
Gen 3 = whole matrices with no mechanical scanning for gaining 2D image and no moving prisms and no tilting mirror. The detector elements are located on a two dimensional focal plane array (FPA), i.e. a chip containing one detector for each pixel that is generated as output
Microbolometer
Gen 1 = 320×240 UPF
Gen 2 = 640x480 UPF
Gen 3 = 1280×960 UPF
Resolution
Gen 1 = Low/Standard Definition so FPAs of 320×240, 388×288 and 480×380.
Gen 2 = High Definition so FPAs of 640×480, 650×512 and 756×576
Gen 3 = FHD to UHD so FPAs of 800×600, 1024×720 and 1280×1080.
Our version below but first some images.
Early thermal imagers had poor ranges and could very easily be obscured
Early 2nd Generation improved range and added much better identification abilities
High 2nd Generation added crystal clear images, excellent stabilisation and couldn't really be obscured.
3rd Generation offered excellent ranges, automatic tracking of targets and digitized target identification along with proper high definition images
Below a comparison of long range 2nd and 3rd
Below a comparison of short range 1st and 2nd
Resolution is for imagers themselves and FOV is for tank sized targets.
1st Generation Infrared Imaging 1970-2000s
Very early systems with limited range and poor visibility in clutter and virtually no terrain mapping capabilities.
1+ models like Agava-2 and TOGS II have slightly improved resolutions and basic target tracking abilities.
Image Resolution: 160×180, 320×240 and 388×288
Matrix Element: 64x, 128x and 256x
Microbolometer: 160x120 and 320x240
Device: Vector detector with 2D scan
Refresh rate: 20-40 Hz
NEP SNR: 10:1 to 15:1
NETp: 80-200 mK
Pixel Pitch: 40-60 µm
NFOV Identification: 1 km, 1.5 km, 600m
NFOV Detection: 3 km, 2 km, 1 km
WFOV Identification: 300m, 500m, 100m
WFOV Detection: 700m, 900m, 400m
Infrared Imaging
Cooled matrix
Examples include TOGS, TOGS II, AN/VSG2, 1PN71, Agava-1, Agava-2, TKN-4GA-01, TIS, M1A2/GPS, PZNG, NZG 200, WBG-X Zeiss-Eltro Optronik, EMES-18, CASTOR, Athos, GPSS, GPTTS, Type 90/GPS, Merkava Mark 2/GPS, SP-T-694, POD-72 and ALIS. 1980-2000s
2nd Generation Infrared Imaging 1980-2020s
2+ models like Catherine FC and OPHELIOS-P have high resolution viewers and improved terrain mapping.
Image Resolution: 500×380, 640×480 and 756×578
Matrix Element: 2x288, 4x288 and 2x256
Microbolometer: 640x480 and 512x512
Device: Vector detector with TDI and 2D scan
Refresh rate: 30-50 Hz
NEP SNR: 20:1 to 30:1
NETp: 70-40 mK
Pixel Pitch: 30-40 µm
Features: Automatic target tracking with full 2x axis image stabilisation
NFOV Identification: 4 km, 1 km, 3 km, 2 km
NFOV Detection: 7 km, 10 km 2 km, 6 km
WFOV Identification: 2 km, 700m, 1.5km, 1km
WFOV Detection: 4 km, 5 km, 1 km, 3 km
Automatic target tracking
Enhanced image stabilisation
Day/night abilities
Reduced noise
background clutter reduction
Terrain mapping
Rangefinding ability
Examples include OPHELIOS-P, T01-P06, 1PN96MT-2, Catherine-E, Catherine FC, Vesna-K, Nocturne, Sozh, PLISA, ESSA, Sosna-U, Sodema, TKN-3TP, PK-PAN, PKP-MRO, BPK-3-42, TKN-4GA-03, TPN1-TPV, TPN-1-MBT, TPN-4-MBT, PNK-6, Type 96A/GPS, Type 99/PS, Type 15/GPS, KGPS, KCPS, Merkava Mark 4/PS, BGTI, ZBD-04/GPS, MATIS and CODRIS.
3rd Generation Infrared Imaging 2000s+
3+ models like 3GEN and Catherine MP have full HD resolution matrices along with long range tracking.
FPA Resolution: 650×512, 800×600 and 1280×1024
Matrix Element: 512x256, 320x256 and 640x480
Microbolometer: 1280x960 and 1024x1024
Device: Vector detector with TDI with zero scan
Refresh rate: 30-60 Hz
NEP SNR: 40:1 to 60:1
NETp: 10-30 mK
Pixel Pitch: 10-25 µm
Features: Full automation of tracking, acquisition and identification with enhanced image stability
NFOV Identification: 5 km, 6 km, 4 km, 3 km
NFOV Detection: 20 km, 14 km, 13 km, 12 km
WFOV Identification: 4 km, 5 km, 3 km, 2 km
WFOV Detection: 15 km, 11 km, 10 km, 8 km
Day/night abilities
Automatic target tracking
Automatic Target acquisition
Faster warm ups
Enhanced WFOV
Enhanced terrain mapping
Works in any conditions
Fog or smoke working
Dual band wave capabilities
Faster and clearer zooms
Rangefinding ability
Examples include Matis SP, ATTICA-GL, ATTICA-Z, KLW-1 Asteria, Catherine XP, Catherine MP, IFLIR, Irbis-K, FEM18, Armata-PS, PKP, PKK, MTTD, Agat-MDT, GOC-1, ZBD-04A/GPS, Type 99A/GPS, Type 10/GPS and DNVS-4.
Low Light Image Intensifiers
Gen 0 Image intensifiers 1940-1960s
Only active and can only be used in darkness with basic Infrared illumination of amplified light with detection of tanks up to ~1500m.
Examples include CMK13 and AN/VSS-1
1st Generation Image intensifiers 1960-1980s
They used proper photocathode tubes.
Photocathode tubes
Passive mode
Needs ambient light
Light amplification ~1,000x
Passive mode detection up to 300m
~100-200 μA/lm
~500-1000 hours tube life
~15-28 lp/mm
~12-19 SNR
Examples include TPN-1-43-29, TKN-3M, TPN-1, TPN-2, TPN-3, 1PN22M1 and AN/VSS-1V1
2nd Generation Image intensifiers 1970-1990s
These set the modern standard.
Improved tubes
Multi-alkali tubes
Micro channel plates
Light amplification ~10,000x
Requires little ambient light
Passive mode detection 400-900m
~2,000-5,000 hours tube life
~200-500 μA/lm
~30-47 lp/mm
~21-25 SNR
Examples include TVK-2K, TVK-3K, TKN-4SR, TPN-1K, TPN-3K, 1K13K, 1K13D, 1PN22K, BPK-2K, TKN-1SM, TPNZ-49, TPN-49-23, Agat-S, 1PN22M2M2, TKN-AI, TKN-3MK, AN/VVS-2, M24E1, PERI-R12 and CDDN-1
3rd Generation Image intensifiers 1980-2000s
Was the only Generation at that time that was competitive against 1st Generation FLIR (although 2+ could do well depending on FLIR quality)
Autogated tubes
Gallium arsenide tubes
Light amplification 30,000x
Require very little light
Day/night sights
Passive mode detection 1000-3000m
~7,000-10,000 hours tube life
~55-72 lp/mm
~600-900 μA/lm
~26-31 SNR
Examples include 1PN22M3M, TPN-1K+, TKN-3K+, TPN-1KS, TKN-3KS, BPK-2KS, 1K13KS, TKN-4G, Buran-PA, Buran-M, Agat-M, BPK-2KI, M32E1, VS580-13, AN/VVS-2(V3), DNNS-2, PNK-72 and KDN-1
4th Generation Image intensifiers 2000s+
These use filmless autogated photocathode multi channel tubes, these remove the ion barrier that limited aspects of 3rd generation and all but removing the halo effect, allowing for completely clear images, light amplification is around ~50,000x with detection of tanks up to 4 km.
These are practically non existing on tanks or IFVs due to prevalence and clear superiority of 2nd Generation thermals which have been used since the mid to late 90s.
Hard Kill Active Protection Systems
These are systems that protected the tank from threats by actively engaging them. We should note these are not full proof, Israeli Trophy system has been defeated by rockets and Iranian hand me downs whilst Russian Arena-M and Drozd has been defeated by RPGs. Like any system, they just reduce the chance of impact.
1st Generation Hard Kill 1980-1990s
Early systems that used pulse doppler radars to detect incoming Munitions then frag rounds to intercept them. that were only effective against early Gen Manpats and 1st and low end 2nd Gen wire guided ATGMs.
Examples include Drozd, Shater and ODS
2nd Generation Hard Kill 1990-2000s
These systems set the standard with more improved radars, faster intercept times and better coverage. Are effective against high end 2nd Gen radio/wire guided ATGMs and low end 3rd Gen laser beam riding ATGMs and modern Manpats and older HEAT rounds.
Arena, Arena-E, JD-3, GL-5, Quick Kill and Zaslin
3rd Generation Hard Kill 2010s+
The most advanced in use, phased array radars, laser warning receivers with much more advanced systems and full coverage and is effective against high end 3rd Gen laser beam riding and low end 4th Gen infrared homing and ACLOS ATGMs along with supersonic APÐS rounds
Examples include MAPS, RAVEN, Diamant, KAPS, LEDS-150, ADS, GL-6, Pulat, Iron Fist, Iron Curtain and Trophy
Soft Kill Active Protection Systems
1st Generation Soft kill 1960-1980s
We're just Smoke discharger systems effective for protection against optical systems.
Examples include Tucha-1, VEESS, M239 and IS-10
2nd Generation Soft kill 1990-2020s
Set the modern standard with laser or radar warning receivers and Electro optical Dazzlers or anti infrared smoke dischargers. They are effective against low end 2nd and 3rd gen ATGMs and can shield against infrared homing detection.
Examples include 3D17, Shtora-1, GALIX, AN/VLQ-6, MCD, VIRSS, TCS-2, Obra-3, LSDW, Varta, ATCOP LTS-1, MUSS, Sarab-1, Sarab-2, Sarab-3, ALWCS and LIRD-1A
3rd Generation Soft kill 2010s+
Are the most modern systems in use with both radar and laser warning receivers alongside a missile alert warning system with anti infrared homing Countermeasures. They are effective against high end 2nd, 3rd and low end 4th Gen ATGMs.
Examples include MSSG and ROSY
Dual Kill APS
Dual Kill APS 2020s+
The most advanced system in use, they fully combine both 3rd Gen technologies to be completely integrated, it uses a combination of modern AESA radars and several digital Electro optical targeting systems to fully cover the tank. It can protect against hypersonic munitions like APFSDS and disrupt High end 3rd and 4th gen targeting systems of ATGMs.
Examples include Arena-M, AKKOR, ADS-Gen3 and Afghanit
Composite Armour Systems
These values are for the strongest point of the tank, usually the front hull and turret cheeks. Not all tanks have this level of protection all over. Hit values are for direct hits against RHA at 0° clean angles.
1st Generation Composite Armour 1960-1970s
Composite resins and plastics with 2km pen resistance of 300-600mm Vs HEAT and 200-500mm Vs APFSDS and all round protection against 30mm APDS
Examples include Combination K, Stillbrew and Dolly Parton
2nd Generation Composite Armour 1970-2000s
Resins, ceramics and steel with 2 km pen resistance of 600-1,000mm Vs HEAT and of 400-700mm Vs APFSDS and all round protection against 50mm APFSDS.
Examples include BDD and Al Faw
3rd Generation Composite Armour 1990-2020s
Advanced steel materials or tungsten composite with 2 km pen resistance of 1,100-1,500mm Vs HEAT and 600-900mm Vs 120mm APFSDS and all round protection against 70mm APFSDS.
Examples include PAC, MEXAS-H, 1st Gen Chobham, Gal Batash, Pageant, KSAP, Kanchan, NERA-BC, Deflek and 44S-sv-Sh
4th Generation Composite Armour 2000s+
Heat treated tungsten with DU and ceramics with 2km pen resistance of 1,600-2,000mm Vs HEAT and 800-1,100mm Vs APFSDS and all round protection against 90mm APFSDS
Examples include Kasag, AMAP, 2nd Gen Chobham, Epsom, AZUR and SAP
5th Generation Composite Armour 2020s+
Advanced composite and DU filler with 2km pen resistance of 2,100-2,500mm Vs HEAT and 1,100-1,300mm Vs APFSDS
Examples include NGAP
Explosive Reactive Armour
Ratings are for clean 0° shots.
1st Generation Explosive Reactive Armour 1980-2000s
Was early armour add ons only effect against HEAT with resistance of 100-500mm
Examples include ERAWA-1, Arat, 4S20, 4S22, Kontakt-1 and Blazer
2nd Generation Explosive Reactive Armour 1990-2010s
Set the modern standard reactive armor combined with composite plates with the ability to reduce the effectiveness of early APFSDS and tandem shaped HEAT with 2 km pen resistance up to 300-800mm Vs HEAT and of 50-200mm Vs APFSDS
Examples include Kontakt-5, 4S24, 4S26, SABBLIR, Rakhsh, ERAWA-2, Nizh-1M and Rafael
3rd Generation Explosive Reactive Armour 2000-2020s
Currently frontline in use. Fully integrated into armour with the ability to reduce effectiveness of tandem shaped Warheads and ca reduce the effectiveness of hardened APFSDS rounds with pen resistance of 700-1300mm Vs HEAT and 2km pen resistance of 100-500mm Vs APFSDS
Examples include Monolith, Relikt, FY-IV,, Nizh-LM, Duplet-2M and ERA MK-II
Radio systems
These are systems used to control the battlespace. Older IFVs and tanks usually required dedicated command vehicles but in the modern age thanks to SATCOMs and powerful VHF radio systems that was eliminated although many modern militaries still utilise command tanks for doctrine and cost purposes like Russia and Germany.
1st Generation Radio Systems
These were esrly WWII era radios.
Examples include 9-R and SCR-508.
2nd Generation Radio Systems
This is the most basic command system. It is an analogue VHF radio system used to coordinate the direct battlespace with basic radio systems giving a communication range of 5-30> km. 1950-1970s
4-6 channels
VHF frequency
Analogue voice encryption
Wideband
Solid state electronics
Examples include AN/VRC-12, R-123, Larkspur and C42
3rd Generation Radio Systems
These set the modern standards. that can be used to coordinate the battlespace. They make use of VHF/UHF radios with a communication range of 30-60> km. This gives the tank SMR CC1 level.
Multi-channel communication
Digital data encryption
56 bit cryptographic encryption with 8-16 rounds
Frequency modulation
Amplitude modulation
Adaptive communication
Fully digital
VHF/UHF frequencies
Examples include Clansman, TBR-115, SEM 80/90, AN/VRC-83 and R-173. 1970-1990s.
4th Generation Radio Systems
These are the radio systems used for all the major military powers' command and control networks, with full integration into command structures. They make use of powerful VHF/UHF/HF radios with a communication range of ~60-100> km, This gives the system SMR CC2 abilities. Higher end systems sre known as 4th gen and add fully digital displays and higher end specs.
Systems include.
FHSS (10-1000 frequency hops per second)
High bandwidth transfer
SATCOM systems
Phaseshift keying
Continuous phase modulation
Pulse code modulation
Amplitude-shift keying
10-26 Mbit/s base transfer speeds for vehicle
60-180 Kbt/s data speed for handheld
Double to Triple level data Encryption
Crypto protection
Rekeying encryption
VHF/UHF frequencies
Improved Wideband waveform
Radio Waveform
Data link capabilities
7-12 round cryptographic encryption for 128bit
9-14 round cryptographic encryption for 192bit
10-16 round cryptographic encryption for 256bit
Low end Examples include Bowman, SEM 93, AN/VRC-90, AN/VRC-110, R-163 and R-168. 1990s
5th Generation Radios
Digital displays
Noise suppression
ECCM
Remote control
Dual channel
FHSS (20,000+ frequency hops per second)
- Improved encryptions
- Digital displays
- Noise suppression
C2IS Systems
This is the modern standard, these systems utilise computers that make use of battlefield management software in combination with C3 or C3I systems along with proper global navigation systems. This will give the user a completely detailed overview of the battlespace and can be used in conjunction with battlespace data link systems and C3I communication systems to give the tank high level command capabilities, basically the computer does the job of secondary operators. This gives the tank SMR CC3 ability. These are usually utilising specific military C² networks.
Systems include
Moving map display
Global navigation software
Precision targeting
Data sharing
Blue force tracking
C2 software
More advanced versions are known as C2ISR; they basically just enhance the capabilities.
Systems include
Reconnaissance abilities
Improved C2 software
Cyber warfare suite
Integrated vehicle management software
Most advanced versions are C4ISR systems that add
Cyber warfare suites
Electronic warfare abilities
Enhanced platoon level battlefield management
Combat link with numerous units
Examples include Bowman-C2IS, Rebar, 2K-AU, IBMS, Trona-1, Strelets, E-LynX PNR 1000, FBCB2, 3-K and U-PDS 2000s+
Fire Control Systems
Vehicle Fire Control Systems
There are 5.
Mechanical
Electronic
Digitised
Digital
Fully Digital
All Digital
Mechanical FCS = These were the most basic of systems, introduced after WWII they utilised a basic mechanical ballistic calculator or a dual axis mechanical or hydraulic gun stabilisation with coincidence rangefinders.
Examples include Tsyklon and M13
Electronic FCS = These defined early cold war innovation, they utilised dual axis mechanical stabilisation, a mechanical ballistic calculator, an integrated stabilised coincidence rangefinders or later added laser rangefinders and a stabilised gunners sight, these utilise semi automatic analogue target lead.
Examples include Marconi FV/GCE Mk 4 and 1A30.
Digitised FCS = In the late 60s and early 70s the rise of transistors lead to the automation of the ballistics relating to the guns and sights of vehicles with 2× axis stabilisation with temperature sensors and gun sensors, gun range computation by use of digital or 4x bit digital gun data ballistic calculations, inputs are placed on gunners panel and ballistic computer, most inputs are still required to be manually entered. The fcs can utilise semi auto digital target lead.
Examples include 1A40 and M21.
Digital FCS = The dawn of the modern FCS with 2× axis electronic stabilisation with 8-16x bit digital gun data calculators with an integrated laser rangefinder, with ammunition, cant, crosswind, Delta-D, Superelevation, Pitch, vehicle acceleration and roll sensors along with a static muzzle reference system to greatly increase range and speed up lead computation with target lead now being fully automatic with very little inputs now being required with automatic digital target lead.
Range of Sensors
Gun Computation Range 3000m Effective 5000m max
Wind Speed Range 5 to 10 m/s
Roll Rate Range 4° to 8°
Barrel Temperature -10°C to +30°C
Air Temperature -15°C to +20°C
Cant Angle Range 10 to 20 mrad
Superelevation Range -2 to +30 mrad
Number of Ammunition 2 to 4
Target Tracking
Speed 1 to 3 deg/s
Azimuth Velocity 20 to 50 mrad
Elevation Velocity 10 to 30 mrad
Error correction 0.1-0.3 mils at 1/2°
Examples include 1A45 and EMES-18.
Fully Digital FCS = all aspects related to ballistics calculated by the gun data computer with two axis digitally assisted stabilisation linked to a 32x bit digital ballistic computer, adding to the digital FCS is barrel bend, atmospheric pressure and improved cross and head wind sensors with target angular correction, gun jump correction and automatic drift compensation giving fully automatic digital target lead. The gunner now has to do nothing but aim and shoot.
Range of Sensors
Gun Computation 5000m effective 9000m max
Wind Speed 30 to 50 m/s
Atmospheric Pressure 400 to 700 mmHg
Barrel Temperature -10°C to +50°C
Air Temperature -30°C to +50°C
Roll Rate 5 to 15°
Barrel Bend 10 to 14°
Cant Angle 30 to 60 mrad
Superelevation -30 to +70 mrad
Tank Drift 0.1/0.3 to 0.4/0.8 mrads at 25/50 kph
Jump Compensation 4 to 8 mrad
Number of Ammunition 6
Target Tracking
Speed 4 to 8 deg/s
Horizontal Velocity 60 to 100 mrad
Vertical Velocity 30 to 50 mrad
Error correction 0.5-1 mils at 3/6°
Examples include 1A40-4 and ISFCS-212B
All Digital FCS = The most advanced in use, all factors relating to the FCS are digitised with total fusion of sensors and data, there is a 2 axis digital stabilisation connected to a 64x bit digital ballistic computer with full digitisation of all sensors and systems with fully automated laying and gun target lead with fully automatic target tracking and automatic target acquisition.
Range of Sensors
Gun Computation 8000m effective 12,000m max
Wind Speed 60 to 80 m/s
Atmospheric Pressure 800 to 1200 mmHg
Barrel Temperature -40°C to +100°C
Air Temperature -50°C to +80°C
Roll Rate 10 to 30°
Barrel Bend 15 to 20°
Cant Angle 50 to 80 mrad
Superelevation -50 to +90 mrad
Tank Drift 0.5/0.8 to 0.8/1 mrads at 50/70 kph
Jump Compensation 10 to 14 mrad
Number of Ammunition 6
Target Tracking
Speed 10 to 15 deg/s
Horizontal Velocity 120 to 160 mrad
Vertical Velocity 60 to 90 mrad
Error correction 1-1.5 mils at 5/8°
Examples include SICS and Kalina.
Infantry Fighting Vehicle Armour
IFVs are rated based on the STANAG system.
Infantry Fighting Vehicles
The first purpose production IFV was the German Lang HS.30 in 1958 with the gold standard for IFVs becoming the BMP in 1961, With Russia largely dominating IFV innovation during the cold war.
Basic requirements for ALL IFVs is that they must carry at least two Infantrymen and have at least a 20mm or higher calibre cannon.
IFVs are broken up into 5 distinctive generations.
1st Generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Date built 1958-1992
First to last Lang HS.30 to Type 86B
Goats being BMP-1 and BMD-1
Armoured troop transports with 20mm+ Autocannon.
Low end Examples include BMP-1, BMP-1S, BMP-1K, BMD-1, BMD-1K, BMD-1M, BVP-1, Pansarbandvagn 301, Pansarbandvagn 302A, SPz 11-2 Kurz, Lang HS.30, OT-62B, V-200, Saurer 4K 4FA, AMX-VCI M-56, AMX-PRI & TAB-B33.
High end examples include Pansarbandvagn 302B, BMD-1P, BMD-1PK, BMP-1P, BMP-1PG, BMP-1PK, BMP-1D, BMP-1A1, BMP-1PC, BMP-1PCK, BMP-1PD, BMP-1PDK, BMP-1SP2, BMP-1SP2K, BRM-1, Pansarbandvagn 302C, MARDER 1, MARDER 1A1, MARDER 1A2, Type 86, and Type 86B
1st Gen wire guided MCLOS ATGMs
Vacuum tube electronics
Mechanical FCS
STANAG level 1 armour protection
1st Gen Night Vision for gunner's primary sight (GPS)
Telescopic Optical sights with identification of AFVs in day time up to 1 km
Optical stadia rangefinder with max engagement ranges up to 2 km
2nd Generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Date built 1972-2010
First to last BRM-1K to MARDER 1A5A1
Goats being BMP-2 and M2A2 Bradley
Improved night Vision with NBC protection, fire suppression systems and improved control systems. Basically a more refined IFV.
Low end examples include Type 92, M2 Bradley, Warrior, LAV-25, Type YW307, ZSD-89-II, BRM-1K, BMP-2, BMP-2D, BMP-2K, BMD-2, BMD-2K, BMD-2K-AU, BVPM-80, BMP-23, BMP-23D, BVP M-80, BVP-2, AMX-10P, MARDER 1A3, LAV II, AIFV, AIFV-B-C25, AIFV-25, YPR-765, YPR-765A1, Ratel, MLI-84 and NM135
High end examples include Type 92, VCTP, YPR-765A2, BMP-M1CZ, BMP-M2CZ, BVP-M2-SKCZ, BTR-80A, BTR-80AK, BTR-82, BTR-94, BRDM-3, LAV-25A1, M2A1 Bradley, M2A2 Bradley, M3 Bradley, M3A2 Bradley, AMX-10VFA, Warrior-BGTI, MARDER 1A4, MARDER 1A5 and MARDER 1A5A1
Qualifying criteria (incl 1st)
CBRN protection
Fire suppression systems
2nd Gen Night Vision for GPS
1st Gen Soft kill APS
C2 communication system
STANAG level 2 armour protection
Fully stabilised GPS
Panoramic Commanders primary sight (CPS)
2nd Gen radio or wire guided SACLOS ATGM
Digitised FCS
Gunners control panel
Ballistic computer
2× axis electromechanical stabilisation enabling accurate firing on move against moving targets up to 2 km
Telescopic optical sights with identification of AFVs in day time up to 2 km
3rd Generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Date built 1983-2018
First to last BMP-3 to BMP-1AM
Goats being BTR-8A and BMP-3
Birth of modern IFVs with digital systems, digital ballistic computer systems, passive armour and improved night fighting capability.
Low end example include AMX-10VFA, ACV-15, Lazar 3, Piranha III, CV90, CV90MK-I, Strf 9040, Strf 9040A, BTR-82A, BMP-2M SB4-2, BMD-3, BMP-3, BMP-3F, BMP-3K, BTR-90, BWP-1 Puma MW-30, BWP-1 Puma RCWS-30, BWP-1M, BTR-3, MARDER 2, Hamza, BVP-1W, Type 89, Cobra-S, ASLAV, M3A2-ODS Bradley, M2A2-ODS Bradley and MLI-84M1
High end examples include Type 92B, Type 86A, Type 04, Pandur I, Bionix, Heidar-7, Sedad, ACV-15, ACV-300, LAV III, LAV-25A2, CV90MK-II, Strf 9040B, MT-LBMSH, BMPV-64, BMP-1AM, BRM-3K, BMP-3-S and Mbombe 6
Qualifying criteria
3rd Gen Night Vision for GPS
1st Gen Thermals for GPS
1+ or 2nd Gen Night Vision for CPS
1st Gen Hard Kill APS
1st Gen ERA
Digital CBRN protection
Digital fire control system
Solid state electronics
Basic inertial navigation system (INS)
8-16x bit Digital Ballistic computer
Digital radio
STANAG level 3 armour protection
3rd Gen laser beam riding SACLOS ATGM
Integrated Stabilised Laser rangefinder with max engagement ranges up to 6 km
Fully Stabilised electro optical targeting system with identification of AFVs in day time up to 4 km
2x axis Electro mechanical stabilisation enabling accurate firing, against moving targets, on the move up to 2 km
4th Generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Date built 1996-2023
First to last BMP-1M to Type 16 CTWV
Goats being BMP-3M and BMP-2M Berezhok
Seen as modern frontline IFVs with 5th Gen, with improved armour, fully digital systems and powerful weapons and optics with enhanced protective measures.
Low end examples include Gidrán, Strf 9040C, M2A2-ODS-SA Bradley, M3A2-ODS-SA Bradley, M2A3 Bradley, M3A3 Bradley, Stryker Dragoon, LAV-25A3, Terrex ICV, BPsVI, CM-32, BM-2T Stalker, BTR-4, BTR-4E, BTR-70M, Typhoon-VDV, BTR-82AT, BMP-3M, BMP-3-A, BMP-1M, BMP-2M SB4-3, BMP-2M Berezhok, BMP-3M Berezhok, BMP-3M Bakhcha-U, BMD-2M, BMD-4, BMD-4M, BVP M-80AB1, BVP-2SU, BMP-2+, BWP-1S, BMP-1TS, BMP-1UMD, BMP-1UM, BMP-1U, BMD-1 Kliver, BWP-2000, Makran, Abhay, Kestrel, SuperAV, ASCOD, DARDO, Pizarro, CV90MK-IIIA, Kentaurus, Freccia, Pandur II, Rosomak, Bionix II, Type 08, Type 03 and Type 05
High end examples include LAV 6, CV90MK-IIIB, BMD-4M Sinitsa, VN12, Type 03U, Type 04A, Type 16 CTWV, Ulan, Patria AMV, Piranha V, Badger, DefTech AV8, LAV 6, FNSS Pars, VBTP-MR, VBCI, ATOM and Lazika
2nd Gen Thermals for GPS
2nd Gen Soft kill APS
2nd Gen Hard Kill APS
2nd Gen ERA
Fully digital FCS
Digital INS
Fully digital CBRN protection
Explosion Suppression systems
Drivers independent night vision
C3I communication system
STANAG level 4 armour protection
Fully Stabilised Panoramic GPS or CPS
3rd Gen Night Vision or 1st gen thermals for CPS
Digitised automatic transmission
Commander's computer information (CCI) digital display with C2IS software
2× axis electromechanically driven optical gyroscopic computer stabilisation enabling accurate firing on move against fast moving targets up to 3 km
Fully stabilised Integrated eye safe auto adjusting Laser rangefinder with max engagement ranges up to 8 km
SD or HD resolution electro optical targeting system with identification of AFVs in day time up to 5 km
5th Generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Date built 2008-2024
First to last K21 to Lynx KF-31
Improved protection systems, armour, optics and FCS with commanders having better communication systems and full SMR C³ level command and control capabilities.
Low end examples include NEFER-L, Inguar-7, D2, Namer, Eitan, Tulpar, Anders, Boxer, Puma, K21, VP10, BTR-82AT, BMP Manul, BMP AU-220M, BMP Dragoon, BMP B-19, Warrior CSP, Ajax, Lazanski, BWP-1M-2021, Rosomak ZSSW-30, Hunter AFV, M2A4 Bradley and M3A4 Bradley
High end examples include Boxer CRV, Borsuk, Type 19, VN-1, VN17, VN20, VN22, AMPV-IFV, K-NIFV, T-15, Bumerang, Kurgnates-25, Lynx KF-31, Lynx KF-41, CV90MK-IV, AS21 Redback, M2A4E1 Bradley and NGCV.
Qualifying criteria
RWS Systems
3rd Gen Thermals for GPS
2nd Gen thermals for secondary sight
3rd Gen Hard Kill APS
3rd Gen Soft Kill APS
Drive by wire driving controls
All digital FCS
64x bit digital ballistic computer
Global navigation systems
STANAG level 5 armour protection
Fully stabilised GPS with a panoramic CITV
AESA radars for aerial defence systems
Programmable Munitions
Sensor fusion
IRST scanners
360° video systems
Digital displays utilising C4ISR software
4th Gen millimeter wave homing/Infrared F&F or laser guided ACLOS ATGMs
FHD resolution EOTS with identification of tanks in day time up to 6 km
There have been 3 major tank breakthroughs in our opinion.
The Renault FT in 1916 with its engine in back and rotating turret.
The T-34-85 in 1943 with its thick sloped Armour, good mobility, decent range, powerful gun and easy production methods.
The T-64B in 1973 with its powerful engine, digital ballistic computer, electronic stabilisers, integrated sensors and full Composite armour with use of APFSDS.
We have a different system from conventional generations, it's similar to the soviet system which in our opinion was better at describing them, they are as general below.
1st Generation Main Battle Tanks
Date built 1945-1990
First to last Centurion Mk 1 to Ch'ŏnma-ho III
Goats being T-62 and T-55
The 1st generation of MBTs with fire suppression systems, improved engines, controls, gun and with proper stabilisation.
Low end examples include Sho't Meteor, Charioteer, Centurion Mk 1, Centurion Mk 2, Centurion Mk 3, Centurion Mk 4, Centurion Mk 5, Centurion Mk 6, Centurion Mk 7, Centurion Mk 8, Centurion Mk 9, FV4202, Kampfpanzer M48A2CGA1, Kampfpanzer M48A2GA2, Stridsvagn 74, Stridsvagn 81, Panzer 55, Panzer 57, Panzer 58, M41, M41A1, M41A2, M41A3, M46, M46A1, M46E1, M47, M47E, M47E1, M47E2, M50, M103, Tariq, Tiran-1, Tiran-4, Tiran-4Sh, Magach, Magach 2, AMX-13, T-10, T- T-54-1, T-54-2, T-54-3, T-54, T-54A, T-54B, T-54T, T-54AZ, T-54K1, T-54K2, T-54AK1, T-54AK2, T-54BK1, T-54BK2, ARL 44, Conqueror and M103.
High end examples include MB-3, Vickers MBT Mark 1, Al Jahra, Object 279, PT-76B, PT-76A, PT-76K, PT-76RKh PT-76M, PT-85, 10A, T-10B, T-10M, T-55H, T-55QM, T-55QM2, T-55, T-55A, T-55K1, T-55K2, T-55K3, T-55AK1, T-55AK2, T-55AK3, T-55T, T-55U, T-55 Enigma, T-62, T-62A, T-62E Mark II, T-64, Enigma, Vijayanta, Vijayanta Mark 1A, Vijayanta Mark 1B, Chonma-ho, Chonma-92, Ch'ŏnma-ho, Ch'ŏnma-ho II, Ch'ŏnma-ho III, Centurion Mk 10, Centurion Mk 11, Centurion Mk 12, Centurion Mk 13, Centurion Mk V2DK, Centurion Mk 5 NL, Leopard 1, Infanterikanonvagn 91, Stridsvagn 101, Stridsvagn 101R, Stridsvagn 102R, Stridsvagn 102, Panzer 61, Panzer 68S1, Panzer 68S2, Panzer 68/75, Panzer 68/88, AMX-10P/PAC-90, AMX-13PA5, AMX-13/105M58, TR-580, Magach 3, Magach 4, Magach 5, Magach 6, Magach 6A, Leon 1, Leon 2, Sho't Kal Gimel, Sho't Kal Dalet, Sho't Kal, Sho't Kal Alef, Sho't Kal Bet, Tiran-2, Tiran-5, Tiran-5Sh, Tiran-6, M41B, M48, M48A1, M48A2, M48A3, M48A5, M60, M60A1, M103A1, M103A2, Type 59, Type 59A, Type 62, Type 63, Type 62, Type 62-I, Type 61 and Type 64
Qualifying criteria
Tank Features
~500hp+ Engine
4 man crews with a single driver.
Metal single pin tracks.
Radiator control panel
Electrical oil pumps
Engine air filter
Bore evacuator
Electronic gun firing
Basic NBC protection
Ventilator
Fume extractor
Improved transmissions (over WWII designs)
Improved radio communication system
Defensive Systems
Fire suppression system
Improved wet ammo stowage
1st Gen Soft Kill Armour protection systems (APS)
Improved sloped armour with ~100mm of RHA on average and ~300mm of RHA at the strongest point
Offensive Systems
1st Generation Sabots
1st Generation HEAT rounds
1st Generation Primary Gun
70mm+ rifled gun
Fire Control Systems
Vacuum tube electronics
Mechanical FCS
Telescopic optical sights with identification of tanks of 2 km
Optical rangefinder with max engagement ranges up to 4 km
1× axis mechanical stabilisation enabling accurate firing, at speeds of 10 kph with turret rotation speeds up to 5 deg/s and gun elevation movements up to -2° to +5°, up to 1 km.
2nd Generation Main Battle Tanks
Date built 1964-1989
First to last Chieftain Mk.1 to Type 69-QM2
Goats being Chieftain Mk.3 and T-72M
Improvements over the 1st generation introducing night vision, NBC protection, ballistic computers, dual plane gun stabilisers and improved features.
Low end examples include T-55AD, T-62D, T-64A, T-64AV, T-64AK, T-72, T-72K, T-72M, T-72M1, T-72MK, T-72M-E, Lince, M41B, M551, M55A1, M48A3E, M48A3K, M60A1 AOS, Stridsvagn 103A, Stridsvagn 103B, Stridsvagn 104, Stridsvagn 105, Stridsvagn 106, Leopard 1A1, Leopard 1A1A1, Leopard 1A1A2, Leopard 1A1A3, Leopard 1A2A1, Leopard 1A2A2, Leopard 1A3A1, AMX-13/105R, AMX-13SM1, AMZ-13PA8, AMX-30, AMX-30S, Stingray, Super M48, Chieftain Mk.1, Chieftain Mk.2, Chieftain Mk.3, Chieftain Mk.4, Ch'ŏnma-ho IV, Ch'ŏnma-ho V, Olifant Mk 1, Olifant Mk.1A, Tariq Falcon 1, Ajeya Mark 1, Ajeya Mark 1A, Ajeya Mark 2, Ajeya Mark 2A, Al Kafil 1, Vijayanta Mark 2, Type 63-II, Type 63G, Type 69, Type 69-I, Type 69-II, Type 69-QM, Type 70, Type 80-I and Type 80-II
High end examples include KPz-70, Leopard 1A2A3, Leopard 1A3A2, Leopard 1A3A3, SK-105, SK-105A1, Stridsvagn 103C, T-54AMZ, T-54M, T-54MK1, T-54MK2, T-54AM, T-55AMB, T-55AM Merida, T-55AMV, T-55AM2B, T-55M, T-55MV, T-55MV-1, T-55MK, T-55MK1, T-55MK2, T-55MK3, T-55AM, T-55AM1, T-55AM2, T-62E, T-62M, T-62MK, T-62MV, T-62MD, T-62M1, T-72A, T-72AV, T-72AK, T-72M1M, T-72-4, T-72M1K, T-72M1V, T-80, T-67, RO-115, RO-120, PT-76M PT-2000, Ramses II, AMX-30E, AMX-30B, AMX-30SA, AMX-30C1, AMX-32, M47M, M47E2, M48A3E1, M48A5E2, M48A5E3, M48A5T1, M48A5T2, M48A5K1, M48A5K2, M551A1TTS, M60A1 RISE, M60A2, Vickers MBT Mark 2, Type 59-I, Type 59-II, Type 59-IIA, Type 69-IIA, Type 69-IIB, Type 69-IIC, Type 69-QM1 and Type 69-QM2
Qualifying criteria
Tank Features
~600hp+ Engine
Vehicle snorkel
Side Skirts
Autoloaders
Electronic CBRN protection system
Improved single pin tracks with rubber add ons
Drivers night vision
Pneumatic engine starters
Electronically assisted clutch
Electric bilge pumps
C2 communication system
Targeting Systems
image intensifiers for GPS with Gen 0 or 1st Gen cathodes
Gen 0 image intensifiers for CPS
Stabilised GPS
Panoramic Commander's primary sight (CPS)
Telescopic optical sights with identification of tanks in day time up to 3 km
Fire Control Systems
Electronic FCS
Fully Stabilised Integrated Coincidence rangefinder with max engagement range up to 5 km
Offensive Systems
12.7mm-14.5mm secondary guns
1st Gen Primary Gun
2nd Generation Sabots
2nd Generation HEAT rounds
HE-frag-FS rounds
Defensive Systems
1st Generation Composite Armour
3rd Generation Main Battle Tanks
Date built 1973-2007
First to last T-64B to Sabalan
Goats being T-72B & T-64BV
The era of modern tanks had begun with digitisation, including digital ballistic computers and ballistic sensors with improved stabilisers along with improved night vision, armour and features.
Low end examples include Viper-72, T-64U, T-64B, T-64BK, T-72E, T-64MV, T-72B, T-72B1, T-72BK, T-72BV, T-72BVK, T-72BV-89, T-72B2, T-72B-90, T-72MP, T-72BM2, T-80B, T-80BK, T-80A, T-80AK, T-80AKV, PT-76M-LCTS 90, CM-11, CM-12, M41D, M41 DK-1, M48A5 MOLF, M60A3, M60A3TTS, M1 Abrams, XM1, XM1-FSED, Leopard 2AV, Leopard 2, Leopard 2A1, Leopard 2A2, Leopard 2A3, Magach 6B Gal, Magach 6C, Magach 7, Magach 7B, Magach 7C, Merkava Mark 2, Merkava Mark 2B, Merkava Mark 2C, Merkava Mark 2D, OF-40, AMX-30EM1, AMX-30EM2, MBT-80, Chonma-215, Chonma-216, Chieftain Mk.10, Chieftain Mk.11, Chieftain Mk.12, Chieftain Mk.13, Challenger 1 Mk.1, Challenger 1 Mk.2, Challenger 1 Mk.3, M-84A, M-84AK, M-84AB, M-84ABN, EE-T1, Type 59D, Type 59D1, Type 62G, Type 88A, Type 88B, Type 85-III, Object 785, TR-85, TR-125, M-84, Stingray II, Stridsvagn 103D, SK-105A3, M41D, Vickers MBT Mark 4, AMX-30B2, AMX-30C2, Leopard 1A4, Chieftain Mk.5, Chieftain Mk.6, Chieftain Mk.7, Chieftain Mk.8, Chieftain Mk.9, Type 72Z, Type 74, Type 79, Type 79-II, Type 85-I, Type 85-II, Type 85-IIA, Tiam, Mobarez, Khalid, Sabalan, Safir-74, Olifant Mk.1B, Merkava Mark 1 and Magach 6B
High end examples include T-55M5, T-55M6, T-62MV-21, T-62MV-22, T-64BV, T-64BVK, T-64BVK-21, T-72M1-22, T-72M1A, T-72M2, T-72S, T-72EA, T-80BV, T-80BVK, T-80U, T-80UD, T-80UE, T-80UM, Leopard 1A5, Leopard 1A5A1, Leopard 1A6, Leopard 1T, Leopard 2A4, Leopard 2A4A1, Leopard 2A4A2, Leopard 2A5, Leopard 2A5-DK, Leopard 2SG, Leopard 2A4NO, Panzer 87, Stridsvagn 121, Leopard 2A4CHL, M-84A4, M-91, M-55S, M41GTI, M1A1 Abrams, M1A1HA Abrams, M1A1HC Abrams, M1A1M Abrams, Vickers MBT Mark 7, Merkava Mark 3, AMX-40, Olifant Mk.2, Al-Zarrar, Songun-915, Zulfiqar-1, Karna, K1, VT-1A, VT-2, Type 63A, Type 63A-I, Type 63A-II, Type 90-IIM, Type 90-IIA
Defensive Systems
2nd Generation Composite Armour
1st Generation ERA
1st Generation Hard Kill APS
Improved automatic fire suppression systems
Rubber lined tracks
Offensive Systems
Fully stabilised secondary 12.7mm-14.5mm gun
1st Generation GLATGM
3rd Generation Sabots
Targeting Systems
2nd Generation image intensifiers for GPS
Fully Stabilised digitally assisted GPS
Panoramic CPS with 1st Generation image intensifiers
Telescopic optical targeting system with detection of tanks in day time up to 4 km
Fire Control Systems
Modern stabiliser
Digital FCS
Ruby based Laser rangefinder with increased accuracy and ranges with max engagement ranges up to 6 km
Tank Features
~700hp+ Engine
Solid state electronics
Smoothbore barrel
Thermal sleeve
Fully electric turret drivers
Hydraulic assisted steering
Spall liners
Improved Drivers night vision viewer
Basic inertial navigation system (INS)
Full power auxiliary power unit (APU)
3+ Generation Main Battle Tanks
Date built 1988-2024
First to last Object 290 to T-80BM
Goats being T-72B3 and T-72BM
These are what people imagine when they hear 3rd generation tanks, and along with 3++ Gen are considered frontline. They introduced fully digital primary FCS, powerful digital ballistic computers, enhanced night fighting with thermal imaging or advanced image intensification along with modern gun barrels with sensors and digitisation of NBC protection, radios and protection systems along with enhanced Munitions and armour.
Low end examples include Typhoon-2A, T-54B cải tiến, T-55AGM, T-64BM, T-64B1M, T-64BMK, T-64BV-17, T-64BV-22, T-64U, T-72B3, T-72B3-14, T-72BA, T-72 Rakhsh, T-72 Scarab, T-72 Moderna, T-72 Avenger, PT-16, PT-17, PT-91M2, M-95, M60A3 SLEP, M60A3 TIFCS, CV90120-T, Ajeya Mark 2ACI, K1A1, Type-85UGT, -72BM, T-80BM, T-80UK, T-80UM-1, T-80UM-1E, T-84, T-90, T-90K, Ariete, Challenger 2, Leclerc S1, Leclerc S2, M-84AS, M-84D, PT-91, PT-91A, PT-91M1, PT-91MA1, PT-91Z, PT-91M, PT-91E, PT-91P, PT-91EU, M1A1D Abrams, M1A2 Abrams, M1A2S Abrams, Merkava Mark 3D, Arjun Mark I, Type 90, Type 96, Leopard 2A6 and Object 219MB
High end Examples include T-90A, T-90S, Bhishma, Bhishma Mk.2, T-84U, T-84-120 Yatagan, T-90S, Zulfiqar-3, Type 98, Type 59G, Type 59GD, T-72M1S, Object 292, Object 640, Object 219M and TR-85M1
Qualifying criteria including 3rd
Tank Features
1,000hp+ engine
Digital radio system
Digitally controlled fire suppression systems
Digitised CBRN protection system
Hydraulic shock absorbers
Turbocharged diesel engines or gas turbine
Metal rubber-lined dual pin tracks
Air conditioning
Automatic transmission
Defensive Systems
2nd Gen ERA
3rd Generation Composite Armour
Explosion Suppression Systems with anti deflagration systems
Secure ammo storage with blow out panels
Offensive Systems
2nd Generation Primary Gun
2nd Generation GLATGM
Shrapnel-FS rounds with remote detonation
Targeting Systems
1st Gen infrared imaging for GPS
3rd Generation image intensifiers for GPS
CRT displays
Stabilised panoramic CPS with 2nd or 3rd Gen night vision
SD to HD electro optical targeting system (EOTS) with identification of tanks in day time up to 6 km
Fire Control Systems
Integrated Nd:YAG stabilised laser rangefinder with max engagement ranges up to 10 km
Fully Digital FCS
3.5 Generation Main Battle Tanks
Date built 1994-2023
First to last M1A2 CATTB to T-80BVM 23
These tanks bridge the gap between 3+ and 4th Gen tanks. considered frontline along with 4th.
Examples include Al-Khalid, T-69IIG, M1A1 AIDATS, M1A1FEP Abrams, M1A1 Abrams AIMV1, M1A1SA Abrams, M1A1SA-UKR Abrams, M1A2 Abrams SepV1, Leopard 2E, Type 96A, T-72B1MS, T-72M1M, T-64BM2, T-90AK, T-90AM, T-72M4CZ, T-72B3M, T-80BVM, T-95, Leopard 2A6, Leopard 2A6M, Leopard 2A6A1, Leopard 2A6A2, Stridsvagn 122A, Stridsvagn 122B, Stridsvagn 122B+, Stridsvagn 122C, TAM-2C, TAM 2C-A2, Kaplan MT,
High end examples Challenger 2 Black Knight, Sabra Mk III, Bhishma Mk.3, M1A2T Abrams, M1A2K Abrams, M1A2 Abrams SepV2, M1A2R Abrams, Type 99, T-72B3M-22, T-80BVM-23, Leclerc SXXI, K1A2, T-84 Oplot-T, T-84 Oplot-M, Al-Khalid I, Al-Khalid II, Karrar, Soleiman 402, Challenger 2 TES, Leopard 2A6A3, Leopard 2A6HEL, Leopard 2RI, Merkava Mark 4, M-84AS1, Arjurn Mark IA, K1E1, Lynx 120, Sabra Mk I, Sabra Mk II, Sabrah and Stridsvagn 122D
Qualifying criteria (incl. 3+)
Defensive Systems
Fully digital CBRN protection system
2nd Generation Hard Kill APS
2nd Generation Soft Kill APS
3rd Generation ERA
4th Gen Composite Armour
Offensive Systems
4th Generation Sabots
3rd Generation HEAT rounds
Targeting Systems
2nd Gen infrared imaging for GPS
FHD EOTS giving identification of tanks in day time up to 8 km
Fire Control Systems
Integrated barrel sensors
High end Fully digital FCS
Tank Features
1,500hp+ Engine
Digital INS
Drivers information display
Drivers independent thermal viewer (DITV)
Global navigation systems
Satellite communications
Fully digital radio with C3I communication system
Air conditioning system
Automatic transmission with digitally assisted drivetrains
Computers for C2 purposes utilising 32x bit processors
Commander's computer information (CCI) display with a C2IS suite utilising squad level blue force tracking suite
4th Generation Main Battle Tanks
Date built 2006-2025
First to last Leopard 2PSO to T-90MS Obr. 25
The most advanced in mass use, the birth of the modern tank.
Low end Examples include VT-5, Type 99A, T-90M-24, M10 Booker, Panzer 87WE VT-4, VT-4A1, Type 96B, Type 15, Cheonma-2, T-90MS, T-90MS-25, T-90M, M-84AS2, Merkava Mark 4M-400, Zorawar, Haider, K1E2, M1A2 Abrams SepV4, M1A2 Abrams SepV3, Leopard 2PSO, Leopard 2NG, Leopard 2A4TR, Leopard 2PL, Leopard 2A7 and Leopard 2A7+
High end Examples include Merkava Mark 4 Barak, Leopard 2A8, Leclerc XLR, Altey, Challenger 3, Type XX, K2ME, K2PL, C2 Ariete, Stridsvagn 123, K2, K2EX and Type 10
Tank Features
360° video systems
DITV with 3rd Gen thermals
IFF systems
Combat data link with other units
Ammunition data link
Sensor fusion
C2ISR software
Offensive Systems
Remote weapon systems (RWS)
5th Gen Sabots
3rd Generation GLATGM
Programmable munitions
Defensive Systems
5th Generation Composite Armour
Anti IED systems
3rd Generation Hard Kill APS
3rd Generation Soft Kill APS
Targeting Systems
3rd Generation infrared imaging for GPS and CITV
Millimetre wave AESA radar
UHD resolution EOTS with identification of tanks in day time up to 10 km
Fire Control Systems
All digital FCS
5th Generation Main Battle Tanks
Date built 2014-2025
First to last T-14 Armata to Type 20
The most advanced in mass use, sophisticated protection systems, unmatched computer systems, high end thermals and enhanced weapons systems and advanced FCS.
Examples include Type 20, Leopard 3, Leopard ARC-30, T-14 Armata, EMBT ADT-140, EMBT, Abrams X, M1A3 Abrams, FMBT and K3.
Tank Features
Fully digitised tank controls
Loitering Munition systems
Environmental control systems
Link to reconnaissance drones for improved battlefield surveillance
Enhanced C3I communication system
Enhanced manoeuvrability
Silent mode with full power APU
Cyber warfare suites
AESA radars for low observability communications enhanced situational awareness
Drive by wire driving controls with throttle, steering, shifting and breaking now fully digitised
Digital displays with C4ISR software utilising multi squad level blue force tracking, battlefield management, vehicle management and reconnaissance suites
Throttle by wire driving controls with automatic transmission utilising an electronic control unit for transmission and drivetrain (all factors are computed by the ECU computer including traction control, wheel speed, transmission fluid temperature, turbine speed, vehicle speed and throttle position with brake light and kick down switches)
Offensive Systems
130-150mm smoothbore gun
Digitised barrel sensors
Electromagnetic gun
Electronic warfare systems
Fully stabilised 20-30mm secondary RWS with radar, electro optical or IR guided systems
Defensive Systems
4th Gen ERA
Dual Kill APS
Anti drone radars
Unmanned turret with crew protected in armoured capsule at front of tank
Integrated jamming systems
Stealth technology with low visibility hulls and low thermal emission design to reduce heat signature
Targeting Systems
Millimetre wave AESA radar
Infrared search and track (IRST)
Augmented reality systems with digital helmet mounted displays or multiple LCD or LED screens for enhanced situational awareness
Infantry Support Vehicles
These classify a variety of vehicles all used to support Infantry from tank destroyers, recon vehicles or assault guns
Qualifying criteria stacks
1st Generation Infantry Support Vehicles
Date built 1940-1964
First to last Sturmgeschütz to Kanonenjagdpanzer
Goats being SU-76 and Sturmgeschütz
Early tank destroyers were made famous in WWII.
Examples include Kanonenjagdpanzer, Object 268, CATI 90, Semovente L40 da 47/32, Contentious, Type 1 Ho-Ni I, Type 3 Ho-Ni III, T48, L3314 Pv-1110, Pansarvärnskanonvagn m/43, Infanterikanonvagn 72, Infanterikanonvagn 102, Infanterikanonvagn 103, Infanteriegeschütz 33B, Sturmgeschütz, Sturmgeschütz II, Sturmgeschütz III, Sturmgeschütz IV, Sturmpanzer , Sturmpanzer II, Sturmpanzer III, Sturmpanzer IV, Jagdpanther, Jagdpanzer 38, Achilles, Archer, TACAM T-60, TACAM R-2, Panzerjäger I, Marder I, Marder II, Marder III, M36 GMC, M56 Scorpion, M50 Ontos, M18 Hellcat, M10 GMC, Mareșal, ISU-122, ISU-122S, SU-76, SU-76M, SU-85, SU-85M, SU-100, SU-152, Jagdtiger, Hetzer, Elefant and Type 60
Optical sights
Mechanical fire control systems
Basic Night Vision
1st Gen ATGMs
Basic HEAT rounds
2nd Generation Infantry Support Vehicles
Date built 1959-1997
First to last AML-60 to Tosan
Goats being AML-90 and AML-60
Lessons of WWII greatly impacted design, this era was defined by mobility with improved protection.
Examples include 2S14 Zhalo-S, AML-60, AML-90, ERC-90, EE-9 and Eland
High end examples Fox, Scimitar, Scorpion, Wiesel 1, Tosan, AMX-10RC and AMX-10RCR
Telescopic Optical sights
Coincidence rangefinder
Vacuum tube ballistic computer
Electronic control systems
NBC protection
1st Gen ATGMs
1st Gen Night Vision
Basic armour (NATO level 1-2)
3rd Generation Infantry Support Vehicles
Date built 1977-2015
First to last Begleitpanzer 57 to Aqareb
This era was defined by improvements to fire control systems and targeting systems with ballistic computers with greatly improved night fighting capability setting the standard.
Low end examples include Rooikat, Begleitpanzer 57, M8 AGS, Type 89, Type 02 and VBC-90
High end examples include LAV-300, B1 Centauro, Aqareb and PT-76E
8-16x bit Solid state ballistic computer
Computer stabilisation
Digitised FCS
Laser rangefinder
VHF radio communication systems with C3
Electro optical sights
Sabots and improved HEAT rounds
3rd Gen ATGMs
1st Gen Hard Kill APS
3rd Gen Night Vision
1st Gen thermal imager
Improved armour (NATO level 4-5)
4th Generation Infantry Support Vehicles
Date built 2000-2022
First to last 2S25 Sprut-SD to Badak
Goats being M1128 and BMPT Terminator
Seen as modern ISVs along with the 6th Generation.
Low end examples include 2S25 Sprut-SD, M1128 MGS, Badak, MMEV and Type 11
High end examples include BMPT-62, B1 Centauro II, Type 16 MCV and BMPT Terminator
Ballistic sensors
2nd Gen Thermals
SATCOMS with C2IS software
Fully Digital FCS
32x bit ballistic computer
2nd Gen ERA
SD Electro optical targeting systems with CITV
Composite armour (NATO level 5-6)
5th Generation Infantry Support Vehicles
Date built 2021-2022
First to last EBRC Jaguar to BMPT-72
Goats being BMPT-72
Examples include Sprut-SDM1, Type 19, FFDV, QN-506, EBRC Jaguar and BMPT-72
C4ISR software
3rd Gen Thermals
4th Gen Night Vision
1st Gen Composite Armour
3rd Gen ERA
4th Gen ATGMs
HD EOTS
64x bit processors
Panoramic CITV
Anti Tank Guided Missile Carriers
These are vehicles that launch ATGMs.
Qualifying criteria stacks
1st Generation ATGM Carrier
Date built 1958-1977
First to last Humber Hornet to Striker
Goats being SS.11 VLRA and Swingfire
These were the first ATGM Carriers that used MCLOS guidance and basic control systems.
Examples include 9P122 Malyutka, Humber Hornet, Raketenjagdpanzer 1, Raketenjagdpanzer 2, Swingfire, Striker, 2P26, 2P27, M201 ENTAC, Ferret Mk 5, Type 73-64, Type SU 60, AMX-13 SS.11, SS.11 VLRA and Pvrbtgbil 9032,
Optical sights
Basic Night Vision
Effective firing ranges up to 2 km
1st Gen MCLOS ATGM with 100-300mm pen of sloped RHA
2nd Generation ATGM Carrier
Date built 1975-2021
First to last Shturm to Barrier-S
Goats being Shturm and Konkurs 9P148
These vehicles set the standard for ATGM Carriers, they used radio or laser beam riding missiles with improved fire control systems and optics.
Low end examples include 9P148 Konkurs, 9P133 Malyutka, Shturm, Shturm-SM, Pirooz, QSL-92, ZDF-89, NJ211B HJ-8, Taifun 9M15, LAV-AT, BJ2020 HJ-8, M1045A2, M1167A1, NM142, MOWAG Piranha tank destroyer, Striker SACLOS, M901, M901A2, M901A3, Jaguar 1, Jaguar 1A2, Jaguar 1A3, Jaguar 2, Wiesel 1 ATM TOW, M113TOW, Tumak-5, AMX-10P HOT, MARDER MILAN, IT-1 and M988 GLH-L
High end examples include Kornet-T, Barrier-S, Spartan Corsar and Cobra Skif
Solid state computer systems
Laser rangefinders
Improved Telescopic Optical sights
1st, 2nd or 3rd Gen Night Vision
1st Gen Thermals
2nd Gen radio guided ATGMs with 300-600mm Pen of sloped RHA with effective firing range up to 10 km
3rd gen laser beam riding ATGMs with 600-1,200mm pen of sloped RHA with effective firing range up to 20 km
3rd Generation ATGM Carrier
Date built 1986-2018
First to last 9P148-R Konkurs-R to NAMIS
Goats being Kornet-D and Khrizantema-S
The dawn of modern ATGM Carriers with fire and forget systems or ACLOS systems with fully digital FCS and modern night fighting abilities.
Example include Fletcher, VAMPIRE, Type 96, PA01, PA02, METIS-M, NAMIS, CSK-181AT AFT-11, CTL-181AT AFT-10, CTM-133AT AFT-10, ZBD-04AAT AFT-10, ZBL-08AT AFT-10, ZSL-02B AFT-09, NJ2046AT HJ-9A, M1134 ATGM, Spike NLOS, Khrizantema-S, Khrizantema-M, Kornet-D, Kornet-D1 and VAB-Mephisto
Fully digital Fire control systems
Powerful computer systems
4th Gen Night Vision
Digital Electro optics
2nd Gen Thermals
4th Gen PLOS or ACLOS ATGMs with 1,000-1,500mm pen of sloped RHA with effective firing ranges up to 30 km
5th gen active homing ATGM with 1,200-1500mm pen of sloped RHA with effective firing range up to 30 km
Cruise Missiles
These are missiles used to glide to their targets. The Nazis created the world's first operational cruise missile with the V-1.
Qualifying criteria stacks
1st Generation Cruise Missiles
Date built 1944-1953
First to last V-1 to Regulus I
Goats being V-1 and JB-2
Early cruise missiles that relied on radio commands and basic gyroscopic guidance.
Examples include Hs 293, Hs 298, V-1, JB-2, Matador and Regulus I.
Basic gyroscopic guidance
Radio Command seeking
Subsonic speeds
Vacuum tube electronics
CEPs of 400-4,000m
2nd Generation Cruise Missiles
Date built 1953-1979
First to last KS-1 Komet to Silkworm 2
Goats being Silkworm
INS capabilities change the game allowing much better accuracy compared to 1st.
Examples include Rb 08, YJ-1, KS-1 K-10S, Komet, Kh-20, Kh-22, Kh-26, P-1, P-5, P-15, P-70, P-120, AGM-28 Hound Dog, MGM-13 Mace, GAM-63 RASCAL, Gabriel Mk I, Gabriel Mk II, Silkworm 1, Silkworm 2, Sea Killer, P-5, Regulus II and SM-62 Snark.
Basic Inertial navigation system
LOSBR short range systems
Improved Vacuum tube electronics
Radar homing
Command free guidance
Long range has CEPs of <1,000m
With short range systems having CEPs of <50m
3rd Generation Cruise Missiles
Date built 1968-1988
First to last P-500 to Kh-90
Goats being P-500 and Tomahawk
These set the standard for all cruise missiles, improved guidance systems with data link capabilities and ECM systems greatly improved accuracy and hit probabilities.
Examples include YJ-82, YJ-63, YJ-8, YJ-6, HY-2A, Kh-26N, Kh-41, Kh-45, Kh-55, Kh-35, Kh-80, Kh-90, P-20, P-22, P-35, P-80, P-270, P-500, P-700, P-1000, Silkworm 3, RBS 15, Gabriel III, AGM-86 ALCM, Tomahawk, Soumar, Abu Mahdi, Harpoon, Popeye, ASMP, Otomat Mk 1, Otomat Mk 2 and Hsiung Feng II,
Low observability frames
Counter measures
Data link
Solid state electronics
Active Radar homing
Sea skimming
ECM systems
Terrain contour matching
Long range has CEPs of <100m
With short range systems having CEPs of <30m
4th Generation Cruise Missiles
Date built 1990-2023
First to last Kh-90 to Paveh
Goats being Iskander-K and Kh-59
Birth of modern cruise missiles with satellite data link capabilities, ECCM systems and greatly improved CEPs.
Examples include YJ-12, YJ-18, YJ-62, YJ-7, YJ-83, Tomahawk Block III+, JFS-M, VCM-01, Zafar, R-360 Neptune, Gabriel IV, Gabriel V, Delilah, KEPD-350, P-800, P-900, Kalibr, Kh-59U, Kh-59MK2, Kh-50, Kh-25MA, Kh-69, Kh-90, Kh-32, Kh-55U, Kh-35U, Kh-35UE, Kh-101, Iskander-K, SOM, Sea Breaker, Çakır, Paveh, Kowsar, Nasr-1, Noor, Ghader, Hoveyzeh, C-704, CJ-10, CJ-100, Atmaca, Nirbhay, Apache, Otomat Mk 2BIV, Otomat Mk 2E, BrahMos, Marte ER, AV-TM 300, NSM, JSM, HD-1, ASM-3, Babur, Storm Shadow, AGM-84H, AGM-84E, AGM-129, AGM-154, AGM-158 and AGM-181
Stealth technology
ECCM systems
Fully digital system
TERCOM/IIG
Satellite navigation guided systems
Satellite Data link capabilities
Radar altimeter
GNS/INS Mid link
Active homing
Image-based navigation aid
Medium range CEPs of <1m
Long range CEPs of <10m
5t
Date built 2017-2021
First to last Zircon to HAWC
The most advanced cruise missiles in production, best of 4th Generation with true hypersonic speeds (mach 6+)
Examples include ASN4G, FOSW, Yun Feng, Hyfly-2, HALO, Kh-95, Zircon, BrahMos-II and HAWC
Speeds of mach 9-14
Fully manuvering
CEPs of <1-5m
Pending
These are equipment that is waiting to be added in more detail but until then it's just a brief introduction.
1st Generation Anti Tank Guns
Are just recoilless rifles that have no rangefinders and just use Manual sights with HEAT rounds. Typically have an effective firing range of 300-800m. Examples SPG-9 and M40. 1930-1960s
2nd Generation Anti Tank Guns
Are anti tank guns but much more capable barrels able to fire sabots and have optical rangefinders with 1st gen night vision. Typically have an effective firing range up to 1-3 km. Examples include 2A29 and 2A19. 1960-1990s.
3rd Generation Anti Tank Guns
Modern AT Guns with full Electronic FCS, 3rd gen night vision and laser rangefinders Firing of APFSDS rounds and tandem shaped HEAT rounds along with guided Munitions like ATGMs typically have effective firing range of 1-7 km. Examples include 2A29R and 2A45M 1990+. Goats being MT-12R.
Towed Artillery Guns
1st Generation Towed Artillery Guns
Were the first modern field guns made, the Matériel de 75 mm Mle 1897 was the first, these are any howitzers that uses cased explosive shells that needs an external force to move it and Have a pneumatic recoil control systems and are line of sight and manually aimed. Typically have ranges up to 40 km. Examples include D-74 and M114 1890-1950s. Goats being D-20 and ZiS-3.
2nd Generation Towed Artillery Guns
Are more modern with advanced collimators with rocket assisted projectiles for increased range with many having improved firing control systems. Typically have a range up to 60 km 1960-1980s examples include M198 and 2A18. Goats being D-30 and FH-70.
3rd Generation Towed Artillery Guns
Use digital fire control systems and laser rangefinders for more accurate firing and much faster firing. Typically have ranges up to 60 km. Examples include M119A3 and M777 1990+. Goats being M119A3 and M777.
Self Propelled Mortar Carriers
1st Generation Self Propelled Mortar Carrier
These are just basic mortars that are always stored inside a truck or vehicle and can be easily dismounted, and have basic aiming systems. Usually have ranges up to 7 km. Examples include 2S12 and M1064. 1910-1990s
2nd Generation Self Propelled Mortar Carrier
These are mortars that are placed within a tracked or wheeled vehicle or are actually built within the vehicle itself, These utilise electronic fire control, a ballistic computer and a laser rangefinder. Usually have ranges up to 13 km. Examples include 2S4 and 2S9. 1970-2000s
3rd Generation Self Propelled Mortar Carrier
These are mortars like 2nd Gen ones but with fully computerised fire control systems and laser rangefinders with automatic tracking systems. Usually have ranges up to 17 km. Examples include Cardom and 2S31. 1990+
Mobile Radar Systems
Portable radar systems.
1st Generation Mobile Radar Systems
These were early Portable Radars that utilised vacuum tube electronics and monopulse systems.
Examples include AN/TPS-1 and P-10
B/C-Scope Oscilloscopes
Monopulse systems
2D search
2nd Generation Mobile Radar Systems
Greatly improved systems.
Examples include P-12 and AN/TPS-43
Moving target indication
PPI radar displays
Circular scan
IFF
E-Scope Oscilloscopes
Pulse repetition frequency
Ground clutter reduction
Frequency agility improved
3rd Generation Mobile Radar Systems
These set the modern standard and still make up the bulk of modern militaries.
Examples include AN/TPS-75 and ST-68
Solid state electronics
Phased array
ECCM
3D search
Frequency modulation
Frequency hopping
Pulse compression
Integrated IFF
Low probability of intercept
Synthetic video radar display
Stationary target indication
4th Generation Mobile Radar Systems
The most advanced and along with 3rd make up bulk.
Examples include AN/TPS-59 and Nebo-SV
AESA array
Fully digital Phased array
TWT antennas
ECCM
Advanced LPI
Integrated into C2IS software
Digital radar display
Counter Battery Systems
1st Generation Counter Battery Systems
Are 1st generation counter battery systems with pulse doppler or pulse repetition radars can scan and detect mortar or Artillery fire from up to 10km.
Examples include AN/MPQ-4 and Cymbeline. 1950-1970s
2nd Generation Counter Battery Systems
Are 2nd generation counter battery systems with digital systems with TWS and phased array radars or Artillery reconnaissance systems that can accurately scan and detect artillery or mortar fire from up to 50 km.
Examples include ARTHUR and AN/TPQ-36. 1980-2000s
3rd Generation Counter Battery Systems
The most advanced in use, AESA radars with ability to scan numerous targets with an all digital system with accurate ranges up to 80 km with tracking of hundreds of targets. Fully removes clutter, full TWS, enhanced ECCM and full digital navigation and mapping.
Examples include SLC-2 and 1B75 Penicillin. 2000s+.
Towed Anti Aircraft Guns
1st Generation Towed Anti Aircraft Guns
Were early AA guns used mainly during the first world war and were very low accuracy with usually being fixed positions or low calibre with no rangefinders. Examples include QF. 13. And 3-inch gun M1918. 1910-1930s
2nd Generation Towed Anti Aircraft Guns
Were AA guns with rangefinders that just used Manuel sights, collimators and lower calibre cannons or explosive shells. usually much more mobile. Examples include L/60 and 52-K. 1930-1950s
3rd Generation Towed Anti Aircraft Guns
Era of modern guns with better systems including electronic fire control systems and Gen 0 or 1st gen night vision and with telescopic sights in ity many introducing automatic guidance. Examples include L/70 and ZU-23-2. 1950-1970s.
4th Generation Towed Anti Aircraft Guns
Solid state electronics with computerised fire control systems, 2nd or 3rd gen night vision or 1st Gen Thermals, laser range finders and improved targeting radars. Examples include 40L70G and RPK-1 S-60. 1970-2000s.
5th Generation Towed Anti Aircraft Guns
Fully digital FCS with computer controlled guns, 4th Gen Night Vision or 1+ or 2nd Gen thermal imagers, laser rangefinders and phased array targeting radars. Examples include L/70-BOFI and ZU-23-2M 2000+
Unguided Rocket Launchers
These are single fired unguided rocket systems. Examples include Luna-M and Zelzal-1. 1940-2000s
Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles
1st Generation ICBMs
Early missiles with unstable liquid fuels, poor guidance and high failure rates have CEPs of several kilometres.
Examples include R-7 Semyorka, SM-65 Atlas and SM-68 Titan I
2nd Generation ICBMs
These set the standard, with stable liquid fuels or solid rocket fuel, improved guidance with later versions utilising MRV technologies and some solid state electronics they also became mobile. They had ideal CEPs of <1-3 km.
Examples include R-29 Vysota, R-29RM Shtil, R-9, R-16, R-36, RT-2, RT-20P, UR-100, UR-200, LGM-30 Minuteman I-II, LGM-25C Titan II, UGM-27 Polaris and DF-4.
3rd Generation ICBMs
These focused on guidance upgrades, with improved INS and the ability to utilise MIRV, MARV or TEL technologies as well as having improved accuracy, digital computers and better build quality. They had ideal CEPs of <500-900m.
Examples include R-29R, R-29RK, R-36M, RT-21 Temp 2S, MR-UR-100 Sotka, UGM-73 Poseidon, LGM-30 Minuteman-III, Hwasong-13, Hwasong-14, Hwasong-15 and DF-5
4th Generation ICBMs
These set the new standard, with improved electronics, all digital computerization of guidance systems and improved fuels giving far better accuracy with built in ECCM. These have ideal CEPs <100-500m.
Examples include RT-2PM Topol, RT-2PM2 Topol-M, RT-23 Molodets, R-29RMU, R-29RMU2, R-39 Rif, UR-100N, R-36M2, UGM-96 Trident I, UGM-133 Trident II, MGM-134 Midgetman, LGM-118 Peacekeeper, M45, Hwasong-17, Hwasong-18, Hwasong-19, DF-31 and Agni-V
5th Generation ICBMs
These are the most advanced systems in use, fully digital systems, powerful ECCM and incredibly efficient accuracy and can make use of HGV technologies. These have CEPs of <10-100m.
Examples include RSM-56 Bulava, RS-24 Yars, RS-26 Rubezh, RS-28 Sarmat, M51, JL-2, JL-3, DF-31A, DF-31AG, DF-41, DF-51, Jericho III, Jericho IV, Agni-VI and LGM-35 Sentinel
Ballistic Missiles
1st Generation Ballistic Missiles
These were early missiles with basic gyroscopic radio command guidance, very inaccurate with unstable fuels.With short range systems having CEPs of 1-2 km.
Examples include DF-1, PGM-17, V-2, Scud-A and R-2
2nd Generation Ballistic Missiles
These vastly improved capabilities, with stable fuels, improved guidance utilising INS and better guidance capabilities with radar. With short range systems having CEPs of <50-100m and medium and long range having CEPs of 500-1000m
Examples include Pluton, Al-Husayn, Hwasong-5, Ababil-100, DF-2, Scud-B, Kh-23, AGM-12 and Redstone
3rd Generation Ballistic Missiles
Dawn of the modern missile with solid state electronics and digitised components, active radar systems, data link capabilities, with better accuracy and can perform manoeuvres. Medium range had CEPs of 10-150m. With short range systems having CEPs of <1-30m with long Range having CEPs of 100-300m.
Examples include Al-Samoud, Shahab-2, Qiam 1, Pritivi, DF-11, Kh-15, OTR-21, OTR-23, Scud-D, AGM-131 and AGM-140 M39 ATACMS
4th Generation Ballistic Missiles
These are the modern frontline missiles, all digital, built in ECCM systems and greatly improved accuracy with global navigation systems with satellite data link capabilities. Short range have CEPs of <1-10m. With very short range systems having CEPs of <1m and long range having CEPs of 10-100m.
Examples include Sagarika, Hrіm-2, DF-16, DF-11A, DF-12, DF-26, M57 ATACMS, Ghauri–II, Qiam 1, Raad-500, Hwasong-10, Pukguksong-3, Khorramshahr, Agni-P, Fattah-1, RIM-174, PrSM, Kh-31AD and Iskander
5th Generation Ballistic Missiles
The best of 4th Generation combined with CEPs of <1-5m and true hypersonic speeds at over mach 9 with terminal speeds reaching Mach 20 and up with full manuvering at termimal.
Examples include Mako, Hwasong-12A, LRAShM, Lingyun-1, DF-17, DF-27, YJ-21, KD-21, Oreshnik, Avangard, Kh-47M2 Kinzhal, LRHW and AGM-183 ARRW
Command and Control Systems
CC4 Vehicles
They can be seen as commanding the regional battlespace (~70,000-100,000 km²) or different sections of the front and coordinating different platoons within, they are used to command the different hubs in the region. Examples include M1130 CV and 1B110. 2000+
(Note: higher command hubs exist but they are not mobile and thus not counted)
CC3 Vehicles
They can be seen as commanding the localised frontlines (~10,000-50,000 km²) and coordinating different squads in the area or coordinating different mission zones in the localised area. Examples include R-166 and M1068A3. 1970-2000s
CC2 Vehicles
They can be seen as commanding the direct area (~1,000-5,000 km²) they are in and coordinating different squads in that area and are used to command a single mission zone. Examples include MT-LBu and M577. 1940-1990s
CC1 Vehicle
These are usually systems added on to other vehicles such as powerful radio systems, they can command the immediate area and the few units within it.
Electronic Warfare Equipment
1st Generation EW Equipment
Are electronic warfare equipment used to Jam radios and radars, and are very basic. Examples include APF-1050 and ADF-2620. 1940-1960s.
2nd Generation EW Equipment
Are electronic warfare equipment that have better jamming equipment, with interception radar frequencies and radio jamming with solid state bit computers. Examples include Borisoglebsk-2 and SPR-2. 1970-2000s
3rd Generation EW Equipment
Are electronic warfare equipment the most sophisticated software, use cyber warfare suites, multi frequency radar jammers, radio jammers with powerful 32x bit computers. Examples include Krasukha and R-934B. 2000+
Armoured Personnel Carriers
1st Generation APCs
Basic armour with protection against 7.62×39mm up to 100m.
Examples include M5, Sd.Kfz. 251, BTR-40 and BTR-152. 1930-1950s.
2nd Generation APCs
These set the standard. VHF radio systems for improved battlefield control and improved armour with all round protection against 7.62×39mm and 5.56×45mm FMJ.
Examples include M113, AAV-7A1, BTR-70 and BTR-80. 1950-2000s
3rd Generation APCs
Modern APCs with digital C3I radio communication systems with SATCOMS or computer systems with LCD multi function displays with C2IS software for battlefield management, enhanced digital VHF/UHF radio systems and improved protection with composite armour that gives protection against 14.5mm AP up to ~100m and all round protection against 5.56×45mm and 5.45×39mm AP.
Examples include Typhoon, BTR-MDM, M1117 and Stryker. 2000s+
Reconnaissance Vehicles
3rd Generation Reconnaissance Vehicles
The most advanced in use
Fully digital systems
2nd or 3rd Generation FLIR
4th Generation night vision
Panoramic EOTS
Panoramic laser rangefinders
Phased array surveillance radar
Connects to reconnaissance Drones
FHD to UHD digital cameras
Digital displays utilising C2ISR software
Examples include Fennek and PRP-4MU
2nd Generation Reconnaissance Vehicles
These set the standard.
Panoramic Electro optical targeting
TV viewer with video
Thermals
Surveillance radars
Radio direction finder
Laser rangefinder
2nd or 3rd Generation night vision
High definition photography
Digital radio
SATCOMS
Examples include PRP-3 and TAB-79A PCOMA
1st Generation Reconnaissance Vehicles
These introduced post war Recon.
Commander's panoramic periscopes
Night vision
Photography systems
Analogue INS
Analogue radio
Examples include BRDM-2 and RBY Mk 1
Tiltrotors
Are any helicopters with rotors capable of tilting allowing to fly much faster are based on Heli generations like V-22 and V-280.
Trainer Aircraft
Are any single or two seater aircraft either fixed wing or rotor, typically light and used solely to train pilots. Examples include Yak-55 and T-38.
Aerial Refuelling Tankers
These Are planes with fuel Tankers used to refuel aircraft in the air. Examples include KC-135 and A330MRTT.
Tactical UAVs
Are UAVs but usually much smaller and for local operations. Examples include RQ-11 and Phantom.
Unmanned Aerial Reconnaissance Vehicles
Are surveillance drones used for long range reconnaissance. Examples include RQ-2 and Eitan.
Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles
Are unmanned aerial combat vehicles, capable of long range loitering missions, launching missiles and bombs or with an Autocannon, examples include Reaper and Loong-2
Unmanned EW Aircraft
These are drones used to engage in electronic warfare. Examples include RQ-4B
Stealth Recon UAVs
Are stealth Unmanned Aerial Drones coated with some RAM with low Visibility airframes. Examples include RQ-170.
Stealth UCAV
Are stealthy Unmanned combat Aerial Vehicles, they use low visibility airframes with RAM coatings to reduce RCS minimum to below 1m. Examples include Korsar and Loong-3.
Hypersonic Recon UAVs
Are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles that go above Mach 5. Examples include WZ-8.
Munition Drones
Loitering Munition Drones, primarily used as kamikaze Drones to attack troops or vehicles. Examples include Lancet and Switchblade.
Stealth Loyal Wingman
Are unmanned bombers with low observability airframes, stealthy exhausts, coated with RAM And have internal weapon bays for over 2,000kg of ordinance with an RCS minimum of 0.1m² and lower. Examples include Sharp Sword and X-47B.
Unmanned Airborne Early Warning Aircraft
Are any drones with extra external radars used for detection of air targets. Examples include Devine Eagle and Zond-1.
Unmanned Bombers
Are drones with large payload capabilities usually over 2,000kg. Examples include TB-001.
Gg
Ggg
Gg
Ggg
Supersonic Bombers
These are long range bombers that can go above Mach 1.
1st Generation Supersonic Bombers
Date built 1956-1972
First to last Tu-98 to Tu-22M2
Goats being B-58 and Tu-22
Are heavy jet bombers that are capable of supersonic flight and usually have some basic radar Capabilities.
Examples include M-50, Il-54, Tu-22, Tu-22M, Tu-22M1, Tu-22M2, Tu-98, B-58A and B-70
Speeds of Mach 1+
~10,000kg+ payload capacity
Range 2,000km+
Rear and front RWR
Mechanical flight controls
Monopulse radar systems
Aerial Refuelling capabilities
2nd Generation Supersonic Bombers
Date built 1972-2002
First to last T-4 to Tu-160M
Goats being Tu-22M3 and B-1B
Are heavy jet strategic bombers that are capable of supersonic flight, usually have pulse doppler radar, improved avionics and control systems with BVR capabilities.
Examples include and B-1A, B-1B, T-4, Tu-22M3, Tu-160, Tu-160S and Tu-160M
20,000kg+ payload capacity
2,000km+ combat range
Electro optical targeting systems
Turboprop or Turbojet engines
Solid state electronics
Digital nav/attack system
Digitised systems
2nd Gen Data Link
2nd or 3rd Gen Radar
2nd Gen RWR
2nd Gen RCM
1st Gen MAW
2nd Gen IRCM
3rd Generation Supersonic Bombers
Date built 2012-2019
First to last B-1B-IBS to Tu-160M2
Goats being Tu-22M3M and Tu-160M2
These are Most advanced supersonic Bombers that usually have phased array radars, with full glass Cockpits systems and Avionics, with sophisticated ECM systems and powerful computer systems allowing sensor fusion with C2 capabilities and much larger payloads.
Examples include Tu-22M3M, Tu-160M2 and B-1B-IBS.
FHD Glass Cockpit
Fully digital systems
Fly by wire flight controls
CCI displays with C4IS software
Digital FHD Electro optical targeting systems
Turboprop or Turbojet engines
64x bit digital flight computer
Global navigation systems
4th Gen Radar
3rd Gen IRCM
3rd Gen RWR
2nd Gen MAW
Integrated modular avionics
Automated aircraft defence Systems
Strategic Bombers
These are bombers that are used for long range bombing runs. (1st Generation were relatively short range)
1st Generation Strategic Bombers
Date built 1935-1960
First to last B-15 to A-2B
Goats being Lancaster and Tu-2
Are heavy propeller bombers with little to no Avionics and just Manuel sighted and dropped bombs.
Examples include A-2A, A-2B, B-15, B-17, B-17A, B-17B, B-17C, B-17D, B-17E, B-17F, B-17G, B-17H, B-29, B-29A, B-29B, B-29C, B-29D, B-50A, B-50B, B-50D, B-45A, B-45C, XB-51, XB-48, YB-35, YB-49, YB-35, DB-A, Pe-8, Il-22B, Tu-4, Tu-54, He-177, Ju-390, Renzan, Lancaster, Stirling, Lincoln, Sperrin, Manchester and Halifax
2,000kg+ payload capacity
20,000ft Altitude
1,000km combat flight range
Secondary gunners
Bombs and Rockets
Manual sights
Mechanical flight controls
2nd Generation Strategic Bombers
Date built 1947-1974
First to last B-47A to Vulcan B2
Goats being B-52H and B-47B
They were the basis of modern strategic Bombers.
Examples include B-36B, B-36C, B-36D, B-36F, B-36H, B-36J, B-47A, B-47B, B-47E, B-52A, B-52B, B-52C, B-52D, B-52E, B-52F, B-52G, B-52H, YB-60, XB-46, Tu-16, Tu-16A, Tu-16G, Tu-16KS, Tu-16K, Tu-16KSR, Tu-80, Tu-85, Tu-95, Tu-95K, Tu-95M, Tu-95K22, M-4, H-6A, H-6B, H-6C, Victor, Vulcan, Vulcan B1A and Vulcan B2.
Internally Guided Munitions
Cruise Missiles and Guided bombs
Combat range of 5,000km+
5,000kg+ payload capacity
40,000ft+ Altitude
Vacuum tube computer systems
Turboprop or Turbojet engines
IRCM
1st Gen RWR
1st Gen Radar
3rd Generation Strategic Bombers
Date built 1981-1998
First to last Tu-95MS to H-6M
Goats being Tu-95MS
Heavily upgraded bombers with vastly improved systems.
Examples include B-52H+, Tu-95MS, Tu-95MS6, Tu-95MS16, H-6G, H-6D, H-6M, H-6J & H-6F
Combat range of 6,000km+
~10,000kg+ payload capacity
Electro optical targeting systems
Turboprop or Turbojet engines
Solid state electronics
LPI radar
Fly by wire flight controls
Digital nav/attack system
Digitised systems
3rd Gen Data Link
3rd or 4th Gen Radar
4th Gen RWR
2nd Gen RCM
1st Gen MAW
2nd Gen IRCM
4th Generation Strategic Bombers
Date built 2007-2019
First to last H-6K to H-6N
These are the most technologically advanced bombers in use today.
Examples include H-6N, H-6K, B-52J and Tu-95MSM
FHD Glass Cockpit
Fully digital systems
CCI displays with C4IS software
Digital FHD Electro optical targeting systems
Turboprop or Turbojet engines
64x bit digital flight computer
Global navigation systems
4th Gen Radar
3rd Gen IRCM
3rd Gen RWR
2nd Gen MAW
Integrated modular avionics
Automated aircraft defence Systems
Attack Aircraft
These are attack aircraft used and designed solely around close air support and ground attacks of enemy units. These are the aircraft ground units call to get support against enemy armour, fortifications or entrenched enemy positions they are engaging. Attack Aircraft Aircraft are incredibly varied from fighter jets, prop planes, helicopters to large gunships.
1st Generation Attack Aircraft
Date built 1935-1994
First to last He-123 to PZL-130
Goats being AD-4 and Il-2
These were the first dedicated attack aircraft made popular in WWII with the Eastern front writing the book on future ground attack warfare.
Low end examples include Dauntless, Avenger, Destroyer, Sea Wolf, Hudson, Vindicator, Vengeance, Ventura, Maryland, Mariner, Baltimore, AM Mauler, T-34C, A-31, A-36, A-26, A-27, Ju-87, He-123, He-129, Su-2, Su-6, IL-2, IL-10, Pe-2, Yak-2, Yak-4, Yer-2, TB-1, TB-3, Su-2, Su-4, Tu-2, B-25G, D3A and B5M
High end examples include B-21, B-23, B-24, B-26, B-28, Tu-8, AD-1, AD-2, AD-3, AD-4, AD-5, AD-6, AD-7, A-2, Ki-102, LN.40, CJ-6B, PC-7, Saab 17, PZL-130 and V-11
Qualifying criteria
Machine guns
Unguided rocket pods
Bombs
1st Gen Bunker Busters
2nd Generation Attack Aircraft
Date built 1947-1997
First to last B-45 to PC-9M
Goats being A-4 and AC-130
Are improved Attack Aircraft with night vision and improved Electronic systems and improved munitions
Low end examples include Tu-12, Tu-14, Tu-82, Tu-91, Yak-26, IL-28, IL-28Sh, IL-30, IL-40, H-5, Short Tucano, PC-9, PC-9M, MB-326K, MB-326G, MB-326E, CT-114 Tutor, G.91Y, B-45, B-46, B-48, B-51, AU-24, A-3A, A-3B, A-4A, A-4B, A-4C and A-4D
High end examples include B-66A, B-66B, B-57A, B-57C, B-57E, B-57G, Canberra B.2, Canberra B.6, Canberra B.I6, Canberra B.I8, Canberra B.I12, Canberra B.15, Canberra B.16, A-37A and A-37B
1st Gen IRCM in pods
1st Gen WVR Missiles
Gen 0 night vision
Gen 0 RWR
Basic ECM
Off sight targeting systems
Jet engines or Turboprops
Electronic bomb director
LOSBR guided Munitions
Infrared homing Munitions
Aerial Refuelling capabilities
Improved Electronic systems
3rd Generation Attack Aircraft
Date built 1958-2021
First to last A-5 to OA-1K
Goats being AH-1 and Su-22M3
Attack Aircraft were coming into their own with armoured Cockpits, better munitions and targeting systems along with helicopters joining the ranks.
Low end examples include Buccaneer S.1, Buccaneer S.2, Mirage IV, Mirage IVP, AC-47, AC-119K, AC-119G, AC-130H, A-4E, A-4F, A-5, A-5A, A-5B, A-6A, A-6B, A-6C, A-6E, A-6F, A-7A, A-7B, A-7C, A-7D, UH-1C, AH-1G, AH-1S, AH-1Q, AH-1J, AH-56, MD 500 Defender, Yak-28, Yak-28A, Yak-28B, Su-7B, Su-7BM, Su-7BMK, Mi-1MU, Mi-2URP, Mi-2URP-G, Mi-4AV, Mi-8TV, Q-5, Q-5A, Q-5B and A-5C.
High end examples include F-4C Wild Weasel IV, F-105F Wild Weasel, F-105G Wild Weasel, A-4G, A-4H, A-4K, A-4KU, A-4M, A-4N, A-4L, A-7E, AT-6B, AT-6E, OA-1K, EMB-312A, EMB-312F, Puma SOCAT, Su-17, Su-17M, Su-17MKG, Su-17UM, Su-17M2, Su-17M2D, Su-20, Su-22, Su-22U, Su-22M2, Su-22M3, Su-22M3K, Su-22UM3K, MiG-23B, Ka-27PV, Mi-8MTV-3, Mi-17V-3, Mi-17-1V, Mi-8TVK, Mi-8TBK, Mi-24, Mi-25, Yak-36, Yak-36M, Yak-38, Yak-38U, Q-5C, Q-5D, Pucará and Pucará Bravo
Improved Heads up displays
1st Gen IRST
1st Gen IRCM integrated
1st Gen night vision
1st Generation GAR
1st Gen RWR
2nd Gen IR Missiles
1st Gen Optically Guided Munitions
1st Gen Anti Radiation Missiles
Armoured cockpits or cabins
CRT displays
LD Resolution Electro optical targeting system (EOTS)
Rotorcraft
Fully mechanical stabilised gun
1st Gen MCLOS ATGMs
ballistic computer
4th Generation Attack Aircraft
Date built 1967-2019
First to last F-111D to Toufan-II
Goats being Su-25 and Mi-24V
These aircraft greatly improved upon the 3rd Generation and set the modern standard for all attack aircraft.
Low end examples include MB-339A, MB-339PAN, MB-339RM, MB-339AM, MB-339AN, MB-339AP, Vultur A, Vultur B, Saab 105G, Jaguar A, Jaguar B, Jaguar BN, Jaguar T2A, Jaguar T2B, Jaguar T4, Jaguar E, Jaguar ES, Jaguar EB, Jaguar S, Jaguar SN, Jaguar IB, Jaguar IS, Harrier, Harrier GR.1, Harrier GR.1A, Harrier T.2, Harrier T.2A, Harrier T.4, Harrier T.4N, Harrier T.8, Harrier T.52, Harrier T.60, F-4G Wild Weasel IV, FB-111A, F-111D, F-111F, F-111K, Harrier GR.3, A-6E TRAM, A-6E SWIP, A-6F Intruder II, TAV-8A, AV-8A, AV-8C, AC-130U, AH-1F, AH-1T, AH-1J, MD 530F, 520MG Defender, Pucará Charlie, S.211, Su-17M3, Su-22M4, Su-24, Su-24MK, Su-25, Su-25T, Su-25K, Su-25UTG, MiG-23BN, MiG-25BM, MiG-27, MiG-27K, MiG-27M, MiG-27ML, Mi-24D, Mi-24V, Mi-24W, Mi-24P and Mi-35.
High end examples include Jaguar GR1A, Jaguar GR1B, Jaguar GR3, Jaguar GR3A, Jaguar M, Mirage F1A, Mirage F1AZ, Mirage 50C, Mirage 50FC, Mirage 50DC, Mirage 50CN, MB-339K, MB-339B, MB-339CB, MB-339CD, MB-339CET-2, Q-5D, F-111C AUP, F-111F UP, F-117A, A129A, A129B, AMX International, A-11 Ghibli, Il-102, Mi-8MTKO, Mi-17V-5, Mi-8MTV-5, Mi-24PN, Mi-28, Ka-29TB, Ka-50, Ka-50N, Ka-50Sh, Su-17M4, Su-22M5, Su-24M, Su-25TM, Su-39, A-10B (LASTE), AH-85C, AH-64A, UH-1Y, AH-1W, AH-6C, AH-6J, Pucará Delta, EMB 314, AH-85A, Toufan and Toufan-II
Laser rangefinder
Attack radar
Digital altimeter
Digital nav/attack system
8-16x bit Digital Ballistic computer
3rd Gen EW Systems
1st Generation Targeting Pods
1st Generation LDR
1st Gen IRCM
2nd Generation GAR
1st Gen RCM
1st Gen MAW
2nd Gen Data Link
2nd or 3rd Gen RWR
2nd Gen IR Missiles
1st Gen Laser Guided Munitions
2nd Gen Bunker Busters
2nd Gen Anti Radiation Missiles
2nd or 3rd Gen Night Vision
2nd Gen IRST
1st Gen FLIR
Low to standard definition Low light level television LLLTV
Digital VHF radio systems with C2 comms
Electronic stabilised guns
2nd Gen SACLOS ATGMs
5th Generation Attack Aircraft
Date built 1990-2019
First to last Rooivalk to Mi-8AMTSh-VN
Goats being Mi-24VM and Ka-52
Frontline ground attack aircraft in use.
Low end examples include A-4AR, A-10C, AC-17, AH-6S, MH-60L DAP, AH-64D, AH-64JP, RAH-66, Q-5L, Q-5N, Z-9WB, Z-9WA, Z-11WB, AW Apache, Denel Rooivalk, A129C, Tiger, Tiger UHT, Tiger HAP, MC-27J, Yak-130, Su-24M2, Su-25UBM, Su-25SM, Su-25KM, Mi-24PM, Mi-24VM, Mi-28N, Mi-171Sh, Ansat-2RC, Yasin, Y-8GS and MiG-AT.
High end examples Rudra, Prachand, Z-19, Z-10, Z10K, AH-1Z, A129D, T129, Mi-171Sh2, Mi-8AMTSh-VN, Mi-8AMTSh, Mi-28UB, Ka-52, Ka-52K, Ka-52E, and Tiger HAD
Digital glass cockpit with LCD displays with moving map displays
Digital FCS
32x Digital Ballistic computer
Fully Digital C3I communication system
Satellite communications
Fly by wire flight controls
1st Gen HMD
2nd Gen EW
4th Gen RWR
2nd Gen MAW
3rd Generation GAR
2nd Generation Targeting Pods
2nd Generation LDR
4th Gen Night Vision
3rd Gen Data Link
3rd Gen IRST
2nd Gen SLAR
3rd Gen IR Missiles
4th Gen EW
2nd Gen IRCM
2nd Gen RCM
2nd Gen FLIR
HD resolution EOTS
Electronic flight controls
6th Generation Attack Aircraft
Date built 2013-2024
First to last Su-25SM3 to Z-21
Goats being Su-25SM3 and Ka-52M
Most advanced ground attack aircraft in mass use.
Low end examples include AH-64E, AC-130J, Su-25SM3, Mi-35P, Mi-28NM, Mi-171Sh Storm and Z-10M
High end examples include JH-XX, T929 ATAK 2, T629, Ka-52M, Mi-24PN-1M, Z-10M-02, Z-21 and AW249
3rd Gen FLIR
5th gen RWR
laser warning receivers
3rd Generation Targeting Pods
5th Gen EW
3rd Generation IRCM
4th Gen IR Missiles
4th Gen ATGMs
Cyber warfare suites
4th Generation GAR
3rd Gen SLAR
4th Gen data link
2nd Gen Sensor fusion
5th Generation ATGMs
3rd Gen Laser Guided Munitions
3rd Gen Optically Guided Munitions
3rd Gen Bunker Busters
3rd Gen Anti Radiation Missiles
Satellite Guided Munitions
Fully digital systems
Full authority digital engine
Fully digital Fly by wire flight controls (helicopters)
Powerful computer systems
Modular avionics
Digital displays with C2ISR software
F/UHD EOTS
2nd Gen HMDs
5th Gen EW systems
Global navigation systems
1st Generation Radar Missiles 1940-1950s
Very early stages.
Radar beam riding
Examples include RS-1U, RS-2U, AA.20, AA.25, AAM-A-1 and Fire flash.
2nd Generation Radar Missiles 1950-1970S
Low End examples include HM-55, Rb 27, R-3R, R-4R, R-8R, AIM-4A, AIM-7A and AIM-7B
High End examples include , R-4MR, R-98MR, AIM-7C, AIM-7D, AIM-7E, AIM-26B and AIM-47.
Features
Semi active radar homing
Vacuum tube electronics
Rear and side tracking
CW pulse seekers
Conical scan seekers
Mach 2+ speeds
Overload tolerance up to 10g
Missile ranges up to 50 km
Launch limit of 1-2g
POKs of 0.3-0.7
3rd Generation Radar Missiles 1960-2000s
These set the modern standard.
Low end examples include PL-4A, Aspide Mk.1, R-4RM, R-23R, R-24R, R-40R, R-40RD, R-33E, Rb 71, Skyflash, AIM-54A, AIM-54B and AIM-7M
High end examples include Sedjil, AIM-7P, AIM-54C, PL-11, R-40RD1, R-24R, R-27R, R-27R1, R-27ER, R-27ER1, R-33 and R-33S.
Features
Inverse monopulse seeker
Inertial navigation system
Semi active Command guidance
Electronic counter countermeasures (ECCM)
Dual stage rocket
Data link
BVR ability
All aspect tracking
Radar proximity fuse
Solid state electronics
Overload tolerance up to 30g
Missile ranges up to 200 km
Launch limit of 4-6g
Missile speeds up to Mach 4
POKs of 0.7-0.9
4th Generation Radar Missiles 1980-2020s
Are missiles that have fire and forget capabilities with full active radar homing known as fox 3s. These set the standard for the 21st century.
Low end examples include Aspide Mk.2, Sky Sword II, AIM-120A, AIM-120B, AIM-120C, AIM-152, Fakour-90, MICA, Rb 99, R-Darter, SD-10A, SD-10B, Astra Mk-1, R-27EA, R-27EM, R-37, R-77, R-77-1, R-172, RVV-SD, RVV-AE, PL-11A, PL-11B, PL-12 and AAM-4.
High End examples include Peregrine, Astra Mk-2, Astra Mk-3, Faaz-1, Faaz-2, AIM-120D, AIM-174B, PL-12A, R-37M, RVV-BD, Derby, I-Derby, Rb 101 and Meteor
Features
Inertial / global navigation system
Full Active radar homing
Active radar lock of 10-30 km
Full Lock on after launch
Defined kill zones
Home on jam ability
Off Boresight visual capability
Overload tolerance up to 50g
Missile ranges up to 300 km
Launch limit of 6-9g
POKs of 0.9+
5th Generation Radar Missiles 2010s+
The most advanced missiles in production today.
Low end examples include AAM-4B, LREW, MICA-NG, Meteor-MLU, PL-15, PL-17, PL-21, R-97, R-77M, AIM-160, AIM-260 and Sky Spear
AESA seeker
Multi targeting modes
Dual band warheads
Smokeless motors
Advanced Data link enabling multi firing
Advanced ECCM systems for use in intense ECM
Directional jamming
Enhanced Frequency hopping
Missile speeds up to Mach 6
RAM jets
Overload tolerance up to 80g
Missile ranges up to 500 km
Active radar lock of 50-100 km
Launch limit of 10-13g
POKs of 0.9+ within improved defined kill range
Gg
5th Generation IRH Missiles
These missiles are set to be the future with Electro optical targeting, lock on after launch capabilities and enhanced IRCCM capabilities to increase resistance to modern IRCM and integrated ECCM capabilities to protect against EW
6th Generation programs include FCAAM and K-MD izdeliye 300
Features
Multi band Electro optical seekers
Lock on after launch
Data link
Inertial navigation system
Advanced IRCCM
Hypersonic missile speeds
Standard Missile ranges up to 60 km
Overload tolerance up to 80g
Launch limit up to 20g
Off boresight 130-180°
Optically Guided Munitions
1st Generation Optically guided Munitions.
These are Munitions that utilise optical contrast seekers and were very early systems giving CEPs of <10-20m and POKs of 0.5-0.7
Examples include Grom-B, GBU-8, AGM-65A/B Maverick, AGM-62 Walleye and AJ 168
2nd Generation Optically guided Munitions
These are far more advanced with data links and low contrast scene matching seekers that utilise digitized image of the terrain with CCD and that can also utilise early IR imaging giving CEPs of <5-10m and POKs of 0.7-0.9
Examples include GBU-15, AGM-65D Maverick, Kh-25MT, Kh-29T, KAB-500Kr and KAB-1500Kr
3rd Generation Optically guided Munitions
These are the most advanced in use, they utilise fully digital systems with digitised seekers and modern IR imaging giving CEPs of <1-3m and POKs of 0.9
Examples include C-705KD, KD-88, FT-9, LS-6/50, LS-6/100, KAB-500OD, KAB-1500OD, Kh-29D, Kh-58UShKE-TP and Kh-59M2
Bunker Busters
1st Generation Bunker Busters
These were early systems developed during WWII they utilised Rocket assisted spinning shaped bombs to penetrate up to 5m of standard concrete, all were Unguided although later variants included basic radio guidance.
Examples include Grand Slam and ASM-A-1 Tarzon
2nd Generation Bunker Busters
These are the current standards. They utilise guided Munitions that can penetrate 1-3m of hardened steel reinforced concrete.
Examples include LT-2, LT-3, BETAB-500, BETAB-500У, BETAB-250-120, KAB-1500Kr-Pr, Kh-25ML, GBU-37 and GBU-41
3rd Generation Bunker Busters
These are the most advanced in use, they utilise modern guidance and advanced penetrators giving up to 4-7m of hardened steel reinforced concrete penetration.
Examples include YZ-200, YJ-1000-1, KAB-1500LG-Pr-E, Kh-59MKM, GBU-50 and GBU-49
Anti Radiation Missile
1st Generation Anti Radiation Missiles
These were early systems that just homed on electronic radiation signals. They have CEPs of 10-50m with POKs of 0.5-0.7 and speeds up to mach 2.
Examples include AS.37, AGM-45 Shrike, AGM-78 Standard ARM, K-28P, Kh-28, Kh-27 and Kh-25MP
2nd Generation Anti Radiation Missiles
These are the modern standard that utilise smokeless motors and digital solid state electronics and home-on-jam to deter against jammers that interfered with older systems. They have CEPs of <10-30m with POKs of 0.7-0.9 and speeds up to mach 4.
Examples include AGM-88 HARM, Kh-25MPU, Kh-58, Kh-31P, YJ-91, ALARM, Hormuz-2 and MAR-1
3rd Generation Anti Radiation Missiles
These are the most advanced in use; they utilise a passive radiation receiver, satellite and inertial navigation combined with a millimeter wave radar for enhanced guidance and ECCM. They have CEPs of 1-10m with POKs of 0.9+ and speeds up to mach 6.
Examples include LD-10, Rudram-2, Kh-31PM, Kh-58U, Kh-58UShE, AGM-88E AARGM and SiAW
Can detect <0.1m² between ~1-5 km
Can detect <0.1m²between ~10-40 km
Can detect <0.1m² between ~40-100 km
Can lock <0.1m² below ~20-90 km ~120-180 km
6th Generation Aircraft Fire Control Radar 2010s+
These utilise two different systems with improved GaN T/R modules and or that use multi positional/multi band AESA system that utilise all digital beam forming and use sensor fusion to integrate them into one.
GaN greatly improves AESA features with better tracking, enhanced beam forming and longer range capabilities.
Sensor fused multi function AESA give the aircraft unmatched situational awareness, better tracking and giving horizontal scan ranges over 200°, such system's usually have over 2000 total T/R modules and have many more advanced features like counter RWR systems.
Examples include Virupaaksha, APY-016K, KLJ-5A, N036 Byelka, Murad-600A, AN/APG-79-V4 and AN/APG-85
Features
Polarization flexibility
Full EW integration
Fully digital beam forming
Enhanced beam modulation
Enhanced Target tracking
Enhanced detection ranges
Radar Types
Sensor fused GaN AESA
Sensor fused Multi Band/Position AESA
Planar array
Radiator array
Patch array
Jet Engines
1st Generation Jet Engines
Mechanical controlled turbojets.
Examples include F100 and R-13.
2nd Generation Jet Engines
Analogue Electronic engine control with centrifugal flow compressor turbojets or turbofans.
Examples include R-29 and J79
3rd Generation Jet Engines
Digital electronic engine control high bypass turbofans.
Examples include D-30-F6 and F100-PW-100
4th Generation Jet Engines
FADEC low bypass turbofan engine.
Example include RD-33MK and F414.
5th Generation Jet Engines
Stealth supercruising FADEC turbofan engines with thrust vectoring nozzles and RAM applied to nozzles along with serrated nozzle ends for reduced IR emissions.
Examples include F135 and AL-41.
6th Generation Jet Engines.
Adaptive cycle or pulse-detonation FADEC Engines
Examples include XA101 and Izdeliye 40
Aircraft Radar Displays
These are radar displays used for searching and tracking aircraft.
1st Generation Radar Display
These were A-Scopes, B-Scope or C-Scope Oscilloscopes for tracking and shooting. Range vs. azimuth or elevation. Displays targets within selected limits. Displays tracking gate. They are raw signal displays. Could be used in any application where a radar operator needs an "aiming" or "crosshair" view like a rifle scope. Displays targets within selected limits of az and el. Displays tracking gate. May display bull's-eye or aim dot. One azimuth/one elevation which can result in confusion with multiple targets.
Examples of aircraft with these are F-8, F-101, Su-9 and MiG-19P. 1950-1960s.
2nd Generation Radar Display
These used C/B-Scope Oscilloscopes for tracking in combination with P-Scopes for searching with Azimuth vs. elevation. Usually have a range indicator inserted typically as a marker along one side. Pilots eye view and very common in fighter aircraft heads up displays for targets being tracked.
Examples include MiG-23, MiG-25, MiG-21S, Su-15, Yak-28P, F-111A, F-4C, F-5E and Mirage F1. 1960-1980s.
3rd Generation Radar Display
This set the current standard with a synthetic video display. Synthetic video displays use the aircraft's fire control computer to clean up the display by eliminating noise and clutter and creating its own precise symbol for each target.
Examples include MiG-29, MiG-31, Su-27, F-14, F-15, F-16 and Viggen. 1970-2000s.
4th Generation Radar Display
The best of 3rd but is now fully digitised into an LCD display with much more powerful computers, multiple display modes are possible along with radar imaging.
Examples include Gripen, Su-27SM, Su-35S, F/A-18E, F-35 and J-10. 1990s+
Cockpits
These are what control the airframe.
1st Generation Cockpit
Early Cockpits where everything was still completely analogue.
Examples include MiG-21S and F-4C
2nd Generation Cockpit
Dawn of digital, these Cockpits started to put some digitization into them with CRT heads down multi function displays with different functions and some digital systems.
Examples include F-15C and MiG-31.
3rd Generation Cockpit
Considered the precursor to modern cockpits, digital displays were now being incorporated into the configuration with early passive matrix or basic colour 240p to 540p resolution LCD displays or basic colour CRT displays now showing flight information.
Examples include F-15E and MiG-31M
4th Generation Cockpit
These are currently used as the frontline for all modern fighters, known as full glass cockpits, all primary flight controls are now digital and displayed on active matrix 720p to 1080p resolution full colour LCD multi function displays. The primary flight display shows the basic flight instruments, such as the attitude indicator, airspeed indicator, altimeter, heading indicator, and course deviation indicator. The PFD can also be used for entering and activating flight plans and is capable of displaying all information shown on the MFD (for example, engine gauges and navigational information) The multi-function display typically shows a moving map and engine instrumentation. Screens available from the MFD other than the map include the setup menus, information about nearest airports and NAVAIDs, air traffic reports, terrain awareness, radio coms, flight plan programming, blue force tracking systems, airframe management and global navigation systems.
Examples include Su-27SM and F/A-18E
5th Generation Cockpit
All digitally displayed controls. They have two or three 1440p to 2160p resolution active matrix LCD multi function displays.
Examples include Su-35S and F-16V
6th Generation Cockpit
These are the most advanced in use, they have very high resolution LCD displays with around 4320p, it is now just one single large screen that utilises touch screen technology.
Examples include F-35 and Su-75/57M
Heads up Displays
These are the displays used for missiles and guns with layer versions utilising various modes.
1st gen HUDS are just basic radar gunsights.
2nd Generation HUD
These were early CRT displays that made use of the range finding radar for the gun sight.
Examples include ASP-5N and A-4.
3rd Generation HUD
These were CRT displays that incorporated improved range finding radar and varied modes into its gun sight.
Examples include ASP-PFD and APG-59
4th Generation HUD
These set the modern standard with systems now incorporating solid state electronics. These HUDs offered more variations on modes, fire select and superior gun sights and included a wide variety of data including barometric, heading, ROC, Altitude, speed etc.
Examples include ASP-23P and F-15HUD
5th Generation HUD
Currently used as the major frontline HUD. The system was now fully digital using LCD technology, the system could use far more varied modes and offered unmatched accuracy.
Examples include IKSh-1M and LPHUD
Infrared Search and Track
These are systems used to track thermal emissions.
1st Generation IRST
Original Infrared detection with rear aspect tracking only.
Examples include AN/AAA-4, TP-23, TP-26, 8TK and Hughes N71.
2nd Generation IRST
Proper IRST with two dimensional scanners greatly improving accuracy and detection giving true all aspect tracking capabilities along with laser rangefinders and can be used to lock radar guided munitions.
Examples include AN/ALR-23, OLS-29 and OLS-27
3rd Generation IRST
Modern age of IRST with EOTS/FLIR being added along with multi track abilities.
Examples include AN/AAS-42, OLS-30, OLS-13SM-1 and OLS-35.
4th Generation IRST
The most advanced. They use laser rangefinders combined with electro optical targeting systems that use focal planes that can be slaved to the LCD screen in cockpit for proper infrared Imaging, with tracking of hundreds of targets with 3rd gen FLIR and high end FHD or UHD EOTS.
Examples include 101KS-V and PIRATE.
Targeting Pods
These are pods for aircraft.
1st Generation Targeting Pods
The original systems.
Navigation/attack
• INS
• Nav system
• Fire Control computer
• Ballistic computer
Fire Control for radar targeting
• 1st Generation SLAR
• 2nd Generation GAR
Fire Control for electro optical targeting
• HD resolution EOTS
• 1st Generation FLIR
• 2nd Generation image intensifier
• SD resolution LLLTV
Fire control for Infrared search and track
• 1st or 2nd Generation IRST
Fire control for laser system
• 1st Generation LDR
Examples include KKR-2, TIALD, PDLCT, Pave Tack and AN/AVQ-26
2nd Generation Targeting Pods
These set the modern standard.
Navigation/Attack
• Digital INS
• Digital nav/attack system
• 8-16x bit Digital ballistic computer
• 8-16x bit Digital FCC
Fire Control for radar targeting
• 2nd Generation SLAR
• 3rd Generation GAR
Fire Control for electro optical targeting
• FHD resolution EOTS
• Automatic target tracking
• full 2× axis image stabilisation
• 3rd Generation image intensifier
• 2nd Generation FLIR
• HD resolution LLLTV
• Integrated fully stabilised Nd:YAG laser designator
Fire control for Infrared search and track
• 3rd Generation IRST
Fire control for laser system
• 2nd Generation LDR
Examples include Sapsan-E, LANTRIN and IKBO
3rd Generation Targeting Pods
The most advanced in use.
Navigation/Attack
• Fully digital INS
• Fully digital GNSS
• Fully digital nav/attack system
• 32-64x bit digital ballistic computer
• 32-64x bit digital FCC
Fire Control for radar targeting
• 4th Generation GAR
• 3rd Generation SLAR
Fire Control for electro optical targeting
• UHD resolution EOTS
• 3rd Generation FLIR
• 4th Generation image intensifier
• Integrated fully stabilised auto adjusting Nd:YAG laser designator
• Fully automated target tracking and acquisition
Fire control for Infrared search and track
• 4th Generation IRST
Fire control for laser system
• 3rd Generation LDR
Examples include AN/ASQ-228, Loong Eye, YINGS-III, Damocles, SOLT-130K and KOEP-35
Infrared Countermeasures
These are systems used to protect against infrared homing missiles.
1st Generation IRCM
Early generation counter measures were just flares and are still used to this day, very effective against 1st IR Missiles and partially effective against 2nd Gen and little effectiveness against 2+ or 3rd gen and virtually no effectiveness against upcoming 4th Gen.
Examples include PPI 26 IW and MJU-61
2nd Generation IRCM
These evolved into fixed jammers that can block the signal emitted from the aircraft. Benefits are that it doesn't run out and is constant. Similar effectiveness as flares.
Examples include ALQ-144 and Hot Brick
3rd Generation IRCM
The main system of modern infrared Countermeasures is DIRCM which is Directional Infrared Countermeasures and can be used to more accurately block more sophisticated seekers from different directions. Completely effective against 1st and 2nd generation and effective against 3rd generation IR Missiles and partially effective against 4th gen.
Examples include Vibetsk and 101KS-U.
Helmet Mounted Displays
Analogue systems or Gen 0 were just symbols on helmets with basic cue software.
1st Generation HMD
These were the first Systems they utilised holographic symbols connected to HUD and slaved to CRT or LCD helmets to allow off boresight abilities with up to 70° horizontal and 60° vertical FOV and ranges up to 40 km with automatic cueing for targeting displayed and and head tracking software.
Examples include Shchel-3UM and IHADSS
2nd Generation HMD
The dawn of digital with full mission computers and displays now slaved to LCD helmets with an FOV up to 100° horizontal and vertical with automatic cueing for targeting and basic mission information data displayed for viewing with head tracking software.
Examples include JHMCS and NCSI-KOS
3rd Generation HMD
The most advanced in use, all digital, these helmets show full HUD information with night vision and thermal modes available and can slave to Focal planes or EOTS on the aircraft and allow all aspect FOV. with automatic cueing for targeting and full mission information data displayed for viewing along with FLIR, image intensification and electro optical generated data displayed for viewing with head and eye tracking software.
Examples include HMTS-57 and HMDS
Radar Warning Receivers
1st Generation RWR 1940-1960s
Earliest examples like AN/ALR-06 and SPO-2B are known as 1st Generation, they offered rear aspect protection with limited features.
2nd Generation RWR 1960-1970s
Examples include AN/ALR-25, SPO-10 Sirena-3 and ARI-18228.
High end examples include AN/ALR-46 and SPO-15E Beryoza-E
All aspect protection
Paint warning
Angle director
Azimuth display feature
4x band protection
Early warning
Manual
3rd Generation RWR 1970-1990s
This set the modern standard for ages to come.
Low end Examples include SPS-45, SPO-15 Beryoza, AN/ALR-56, AN/ALR-50 and AN/ALR-60
High end examples include SPO-15S Beryoza-S, AN/ALR-64 and Tarang
Automatic function
Paint warning
Radar type displayed
Radar band database
Azimuth and elevation display indicator
Missile launch indicator
Integrated with IFF, countermeasures and EW
Threat identifier
Stabilised headings
Solid state electronics
Threat Priority
Pulse repetition detection
X-Band to VHF protection
8-16x bit Digital chipsets linked to the FMC
4th Generation RWR 1980-2020s
The most common in use by modern militaries.
Examples include AN/ALR-67 and SPO-32 Pastel
High end examples include SPO-32M Pastel-M, AN/ALR-94 and BOW-21
This adds
Fully digitised
Fully automated
Frequency modulation
Pulse repetition detection
Integrated with IFF, Radar, countermeasures, FMC and EW
Advanced Threat identifier
Reduce effectiveness of early LPI
Linked to MFD
32x bit Digital chipsets linked to the FMC
~0.2 MHz to ~100 GHz spectrum protection
Improved Radar paint type database
5th Generation RWR 2010s+
The most advanced in use. Examples include AN/ALR-250, AN/ALR-239, SPO-150-16M, SPO-150-35 and SPECTRA
Multi position radars and sensors
Beam modulation protection
Frequency hopping deterrent
ECCM (effective against modern LPI)
Sensor fusion with all systems linked inc. radar, EW, FMC, IFF and all countermeasure systems (DCIRM, ECCM, RCM, IRCM, MAW etc)
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