CMN (Constructions Mécaniques de Normandie) Introduces the new DV15 RWS30 Fast Patrol Boat

The Genesis

Several factors led CMN to develop this news "RWS30" version of their interceptor DV15 range. First, it is a natural evolution of their interceptor in service in several countries and so far only armed with 12.7 mm manual mounts. The platform was designed from the outset for military use and therefore incorporated from scratch military design and conception. It therefore provided a consistent basis for developing such a product. Then the market demand for interceptors has evolved in recent years to new missions, new concepts of jobs that require advanced and efficient combat systems as well as integration of monitoring and overall protection systems. Finally, CMN was offered unique opportunities for partnerships in this project:

Firstly, BAE Systems' Swedish branch Bofors, with a recognized expertise for over 120 years in terms of guns, and with whom CMN maintains a constructive relationship on other projects. BOFORS offered CMN a stabilized turret of 30mm caliber perfectly consistent in size and dimensions with the Interceptor DV 15 platform.

Then, THALES Communications, whose advanced solutions for communications and command systems matched CMN objectives perfectly.

The DV15 RWS 30 development was fully self-funded. Collaborations between CMN and its suppliers have been designed as a win-win partnership.

Turret, systems and onboard integration

The weapon is an ATK M230LF cannon of 30 mm caliber. This is the modified version of the Apache attack helicopter's cannon, belt fed with a rate of fire of 200 rds / min and attenuated recoil. It is integrated by BOFORS in its gyro-stabilized and navalized LEMUR turret equipped with a sensor package with day / night cameras, a laser rangefinder, ballistic and track modules. The turret can be integrated with the navigation system and / or the mini combat management system by THALES to allow designations of targets and to receive navigation data necessary for ballistics.

The integration of the LEMUR turret aboard the DV15 RWS30 was a real technological tour de force in many areas for CMN and BOFORS:

-In terms of structure first, because placing a 340 kilos 30mm cannon on top of a vessel's roof and being able to sustain speeds in excess of 50 knots (with shocks level on the roof of up to 7 g) is not an easy task.

-Secondly, In terms of interior outfitting and propulsion, in order to maintain stability and performance of the ship while compensating for the addition of weight aloft.

-Relating to electromagnetic compatibility also, especially regarding the safety of ammunition stored onboard and inter-equipment jamming issues.

-Finally, in a number of related field such as usability, optimization of the firing range, storage and tracking ammunition, radar signature, ...

Considering the limited size of the platform (and thus the proximity of equipment) and strong naval architectural constraints related to target performance, CMN addressed all the integration work globally. The experience and expertise of the shipyard for the integration of combat systems but also the expertise of CMN subsidiary JMV Industries in the field of high performance composite materials, were key in the success of the project.

Performances

The basic performance of the DV15, such as speed, maneuverability, habitability (crew of 3 to 4 people), range (350 nm @ 40 kts) remain unchanged on the RWS30 version . The aditions are the turret of 30mm BOFORS LEMUR (The DV15RWS30 can carry up to 2x110-round ammo box on board) and communication and command systems by Thales. CMN has demonstrated all of these performances during test and live firing campaigns in late 2011. Speeds well in excess of 50 knots were reached and CMN is still working today to improve this performance. CMN validated the range of the communication systems, particularly in the VHF range, when tested in cooperation with THALES. In October, a firing campaign validated the entire onboard integration: physical integration, interfacing with the navigation system and shooting performance. Regarding the latter, the behavior of the turret is excellent, and the results of shooting at speeds up to 50 knots are close to the intrinsic performance of the turret.