Defense Industry Research Articles

Characterizing the defense industry for risk management: a systems approach

PurposeManagement and risk techniques within industries have been studied from various disciplines in nondefense-affiliated industries. Given the assumption that these techniques, strategies and mitigations used in one industry apply to other similar industries, this paper examines the defense industry for risk assessment. We characterize interactions for onward application to risk identification in the defense industry.Design/methodology/approachThis research employs a systems theory approach to the characterization of industry interactions, using three dimensions including environment, boundaries and relationships. It develops a framework for identifying relationship types within system-of-systems (SoS) environments by analyzing the features of interactions that occur in such environments.FindingsThe study’s findings show that different systems environments within the defense industry SoS exhibit different interaction characteristics and hence display different relationship patterns, which can indicate potential vulnerabilities.Research limitations/implicationsBy employing interaction as a means for evaluating potential risks, this research emphasizes the role played by relationship factors in reducing perceived risks and simultaneously increasing trust.Originality/valueThis paper intends to develop an initial snapshot of the relationship status of the Swedish defense industry in light of the global consolidation in this industry, which is a relevant contextual contribution.

Improvement of the System of Accounting for Bonuses for Personnel at the Enterprise of the Military-Industrial Complex

The relevance of the study consists in the need to increase the motivation and efficiency of personnel in the context of a changing economic situation and technological changes at the enterprise of the military-industrial industry.The purpose of the study is to develop a system for accounting for bonuses for personnel on the basis of an updated system of principles for stimulating the activities of employees at the enterprise of the military-industrial complex.The оbjectives: are to develop, on the basis of a comparative analysis of the peculiarities of the industry and the principles of stimulation, a refined system of principles for stimulating the activities of employees; test the method of assessing the performance of employees of scientific, technical and production departments; develop a regulation on the distribution of the amount of the bonus between employees of the enterprise at the end of the reporting period.The methodology is a qualitative study, including an analysis of the existing system of accounting for personnel bonuses, as well as the introduction of an improved system of accounting for bonuses at the enterprise of the military-industrial complex.Results. The article describes the development of a new model for accounting for bonuses for personnel, adapted specifically for enterprises of the military-industrial complex, taking into account their characteristics and needs, and also contains practical recommendations for improving the system of accounting for bonuses for personnel at enterprises of the military-industrial complex, based on the result of the study.Conclusions. Based on the generalization of the best practices of scientists, in terms of the formation of requirements for the system of incentives for employees, as well as the specifics of the activities of the defense industry, the system of principles for stimulating the activities of employees in defense industry organizations was clarified, which made it possible to reduce staff turnover and achieve the strategic goals of enterprises. Key performance indicators have been proposed and tested to assess the performance of employees, as well as regulations on the distribution of the amount of the bonus between employees of the defense industry enterprise based on the results of the reporting period based on the assessment of the employee's labor contribution, obtained by summing up points on basic bonus indicators and individual motivation indicators, This made it possible to calculate the employee's remuneration in a certain order and establish the procedure for awarding employees of scientific and production divisions.

АНАЛИЗ УЧАСТИЯ РОССИЙСКОГО ОБОРОННО-ПРОМЫШЛЕННОГО КОМПЛЕКСА НА МИРОВОМ РЫНКЕ ВООРУ-ЖЕНИЯ И ВОЕННОЙ ТЕХНИКИ

The article explores and outlines the participation of the Russian military-industrial complex (DIC) in expanding the range of foreign trade activities and developing the economy of the Russian Federation by producing and releasing for these purposes various types of modern, in-demand and competitive military, civil and dual products on the world and domestic commodity markets. appointments. A definition of the global market for military products (MP) is given, its geography, characteristics, trends and operating features, the implementation of international legal regulation, the value of annual trade turnover, the presence of official and illegal schemes for the sale of weapons and military equipment, and the reasons for the emergence of the latter are revealed. The geography and indicators of the participation of the Russian Federation in this market for the period 2015–2022 are given, its rating among the states that are the main exporters of weapons and military equipment, as well as comparison with the USA and EU countries - the main exporters to the world market of weapons, military equipment and others types of military products, the ratio of their exports to military expenditures and to the gross domestic product. The authors present a correlation regression analysis of the main factors influencing Russia's posi-tion in the world market for weapons, military equipment and other types of military products, including an analysis of the Russian share in global arms exports, as well as an analysis of the share of arms and military equipment exports in Russia's total ex-ports. The conclusions summarize the results of the study, indicating the real, signifi-cant contribution of the Russian defense industry to the development of foreign trade activities and the country's economy in the context of sanctions restrictions and in-creasing global risks.

Effects of heat treatment and hot isostatic pressing on microstructure and fatigue improvements in Ti-6Al-4V alloy fabricated by selective laser melting

SLM plays a critical role in in-space intelligent manufacturing and defense industries, while inherent hurdles due to internal defects in the SLM parts restrict practical reliability. Post-processing of heat treatment and hot isostatic pressing was comparatively applied to reveal the microstructure and fatigue performance. In this work, the resulted microstructure was revealed by XRD, SEM and TEM. Also, the stress-life curve of high cycle fatigue performance was obtained. This work provides a direct comparison for two post-processing techniques, contributing to more reliable application for SLM Ti alloy industrialization.

Multi-Device Security Application for Unmanned Surface and Aerial Systems

The use of autonomous and unmanned systems continues to increase, with uses spanning from package delivery to simple automation of tasks and from factory usage to defense industries and agricultural applications. With the proliferation of unmanned systems comes the question of how to secure the command-and-control communication links among such devices and their operators. In this work, we look at the use of the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol, designed to support long-lived continuous sessions and group communication with a high degree of security. We build out MAUI—an MLS API for UxS Integration that provides an interface for the secure exchange of data between a ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and an unmanned surface vehicle (USV) in a multi-domain ad-hoc network configuration, and experiment on system limits such as the ciphersuite set-up time and message handling rates. The experiments in this work were conducted in virtual and physical environments between the UAV, USV, and a controller device (all of different platforms). Our results demonstrate the viability of capitalizing on MLS’s capabilities to securely and efficiently transmit data for distributed communication among various unmanned system platforms.

Process parameters settings of friction stir welding using multi-response optimization for aluminum alloys

The defense and aerospace industries utilize the AA2050, an aluminum-lithium alloy of the third generation. Principal component analysis (PCA) and Taguchi-grey relational analysis (GRA) are utilized in this study to enhance the process constraints for friction stir welding (FSW). The quality of the weld can be influenced by various process factors such as the speed at which the weld is traversed, the speed at which the tool is rotated, the angle at which the tool is tilted, the diameter of the shoulder, and the shape of the tool pin. The combination of PCA and the well-known Taguchi-GRA approach enables the objective estimation of response weights. Here, a Taguchi L16 orthogonal array was designed, and sixteen tests were carried out using it. These experiments were conducted with various assessments including tensile strength, yield strength, elongation percentage, hardness of the weld zone, bending load, etc Through the utilization of Taguchi-GRA-PCA analysis, the most suitable process parameters were identified as a traverse speed (TS) of 160 mm min−1, a rotating speed (RS) of 900 rpm, a tilt angle (TA) of 2 degrees, a shoulder diameter (SD) of 16 mm, and with a straight square tool pin profile (TPP). ANOVA revealed the relevance of all five characteristics, with rotational speed being the most influential, accounting for 43.56% of the entire result. A confirmation experiment done under ideal conditions revealed a significant improvement in total weld quality of 19.06%.

СЕТЕВОЕ ВЗАИМОДЕЙСТВИЕ ПРИ РЕАЛИЗАЦИИ ПРОЕКТОВ ПРОИЗВОДСТВА ВЫСОКОТЕХНОЛОГИЧНОЙ ГРАЖДАНСКОЙ ПРОДУКЦИИ: СУЩНОСТЬ, ИДЕНТИФИКАЦИОННЫЕ ПРИЗНАКИ

Solving the task set by the state for defense industry enterprises to increase the share of high-tech civilian products to 50 % by 2030 requires accelerating the process of increasing innovative potential. To a large extent, the implementation of this plan is seen through the creation of network interaction between the defense industry and subjects of innovative activity that have the necessary potential. The purpose of the study is to determine the characteristics of the network, its identification characteristics, which make it possible to identify types of networks for the implementation of projects for the production of high-tech civilian products. Objectives of the study: to substantiate the relevance of using the network approach in organizing the integration interaction of various levels of government and defense industry enterprises; to explore the concept of a network, highlighting scientific approaches that form different ideas about the essence and structure of the network; to identify the main identification features of networks; to justify the need to carry out a typology of networks within the framework of the identified types of ongoing projects for the production of high-tech civilian products with the participation of the innovative potential of defense industry enterprises. The methodological basis of the study is the methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison and generalization. Research is based on the study of conceptual ideas about the functioning of networks, their systematization and generalization. The result of the study is an analysis of existing approaches to defining the content of the concept of a network; highlighting the main identification features; determination of the types of ongoing projects for the production of high-tech civilian products. The use of a network approach allows for strategic interaction and integration of the state, regions, and defense industry enterprises; building innovation capacity to accelerate market entry and expansion; attracting foreign partners as participants in network interaction. The revealed identification features are implemented to varying degrees when organizing network interaction within the framework of selected types of projects for the production of high-tech civilian products. In this regard, it was concluded that it is necessary to develop a typology of networks for the implementation of these types of projects.

Do Elections Cause Military Spending to Go Up or Down? New International Evidence

This study explores whether the level of military expenditures is affected by the occurrence of elections. From a theoretical perspective, it is not immediately clear whether, and if so, in which direction, upcoming elections shift military expenditures. On the one hand, the incumbent may try to enhance the likelihood of being re-elected by supporting the domestic defense industry. On the other hand, it might be more attractive to cut defense spending and increase non-defense spending. It is also possible that both effects coexist. We therefore apply the finite mixture model (FMM), which is able to test competing hypotheses. Our results, based on a panel of 93 democratic countries between 1980 and 2018 and Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) data on military spending, yield support for both hypotheses. Countries facing security risks or having a significant defense industry are most likely to expand their defense spending in an election year, while other countries are more likely to reduce their defense expenditure.

The use of Egyptian volcanic glass powder as a potential source for improving the properties of alkali-activated fly ash cement

In this article, for the first time, the potential use of Egyptian volcanic glass powder (VGP) has emerged as an intriguing option. The intriguing potential advantages of incorporating VGP into alkali-activated fly ash (AAFA) cement were explored. The volcanic glass (VG) was brought from the Egyptian eastern desert quarry in the form of lumps and fragments. To utilize it effectively, the VG was crushed and ground before being mixed with fly ash (FA). Various proportions of VGP ranging from 10% to 70% were blended with FA as a partial substitution. Both plain FA and those blended with VGP were then activated using an alkaline activator, resulting in the creation of alkali-activated cement. An investigation was conducted to assess the effect of various ratios of VGP on the flowability, compressive strength up to 90 days, resistance of drying/wetting cycles, crystalline phases, hydration products, and microstructures of AAFA cement. The results confirmed a positive effect of AAFA properties with including VGP. The obtained blended cement can be used in several potential applications such as in roadways, bridges and tunnels, facades and cladding, indoor and outdoor floorings, as well as aerospace and defense industries due to its high durability to resist the degradation caused by wetting/drying cycles.

방위산업 R&D 인력 유입 및 유지를 위한 제도적 개선 방안 연구

방위산업 R&D 인력 유입 및 유지를 위한 제도적 개선 방안 연구

Mechanical shock test simulation analysis of butterfly valves developed for the naval defense industry and evaluation of real test and production data

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanical shock behavior and develop the shock resistance of widely preferred butterfly valves for navy defense industries by handling the real test results with computer aided design and simulation programs. The 2D and 3D drawings were realized by using solid modeling and design programs. Mechanical analyzes to determine the mechanical strength of the specimens were carried out with the finite element analysis method by using structural simulation program. Mechanical shock test simulations were carried out by with shock response spectrum analysis. Solidification, filling-time–temperature analyzes, and simulation studies of inner stresses caused by micro and macro shrinkages were performed by using the casting simulation program. Comparisons of virtual tests simulated in computer environment with real tests were done in shock test setup. Products made of bronze were preferred due to the high corrosion resistance and the desire to be a useful research article that can respond to common applications in the defense industry. Virtual shock test simulation and real shock tests were performed according to the MIL STD 810 standard. The shock test results observations showed that by revising the design with a safety factor of 18% on the specimen, it was ensured that the product could pass the mechanical shock test even at an acceleration of 4000 m/s2. Then material become safe to use. With the use of a three-way feeder in the production of the reinforced design the difference in net weight from 19% has been reduced to 12%, while the production time has been improved by 22%.

Investigation of system parameters towards safer impact based shock-to-detonation transition in a novel laser driven flyer plate prototype

Laser driven flyer plate technology offers improved safety and reliability for detonation of explosives in industrial applications ranging from mining and stone quarrying to the aerospace and defense industries. This study is based on developing a safer laser driven flyer plate prototype comprised of a laser initiator and a flyer plate subsystem that can be used with secondary explosives. System parameters were optimized to initiate the shock-to-detonation transition (SDT) of a secondary explosive based on the impact created by the flyer plate on the explosive surface. Rupture of the flyer was investigated at the mechanically weakened region located on the interface of these subsystems, where the product gases from the deflagration of the explosive provide the required energy. A bilayer energetic material was used, where the first layer consisted of a pyrotechnic component, zirconium potassium perchlorate (ZPP), for sustaining the ignition by the laser beam and the second layer consisted of an insensitive explosive, cyclotetramethylene-tetranitramine (HMX), for deflagration. A plexiglass interface was used to enfold the energetic material. The focal length of the laser beam from the diode was optimized to provide a homogeneous beam profile with maximum power at the surface of the ZPP. Closed bomb experiments were conducted in an internal volume of 10 cm3 for evaluation of performance. Dependency of the laser driven flyer plate system output on confinement, explosive density, and laser beam power were analyzed. Measurements using a high-speed camera resulted in a flyer velocity of 670 ± 20 m/s that renders the prototype suitable as a laser detonator in applications, where controlled employment of explosives is critical.

Machine learning optimization strategy of shaped charge liner structure based on jet penetration efficiency

Shaped charge liner (SCL) has been extensively applied in oil recovery and defense industries. Achieving superior penetration capability through optimizing SCL structures presents a substantial challenge due to intricate rate-dependent processes involving detonation-driven liner collapse, high-speed jet stretching, and penetration. This study introduces an innovative optimization strategy for SCL structures that employs jet penetration efficiency as the primary objective function. The strategy combines experimentally validated finite element method with machine learning (FEM-ML). We propose a novel jet penetration efficiency index derived from enhanced cutoff velocity and shape characteristics of the jet via machine learning. This index effectively evaluates the jet penetration performance. Furthermore, a multi-model fusion based on a machine learning optimization method, called XGBOOST-MFO, is put forward to optimize SCL structure over a large input space. The strategy's feasibility is demonstrated through the optimization of copper SCL implemented via the FEM-ML strategy. Finally, this strategy is extended to optimize the structure of the recently emerging CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloy conical liners and hemispherical copper liners. Therefore, the strategy can provide helpful guidance for the engineering design of SCL.

The impact of financing efficiency in defense industry base on non‐technological innovation: Evidence from China

AbstractThe innovation of defense industry base requires not only technological progress but also scientific organization and management and reasonable business model. Based on the data of A‐share listed companies related to defense industry base in China from 2013 to 2021, this paper employs panel‐probit model with instrumental variable to empirically test the relationship and influence mechanism of financing efficiency on non‐technological innovation. It is found that the financing efficiency of the defense industry base has a significantly positive effect on organizational innovation and market innovation, which is more prominent in state‐owned enterprises and military enterprises. The influence mechanism is mainly to improve information symmetry and reduce agency costs. Internally, the defense industry base should strengthen the management of financing and innovation activities; from the external point of view, the government needs to improve the construction of capital market, and financial institutions need to play the role of professional institutional investors and external supervisors, which is conducive to improving the non‐technical innovation ability of defense industry base.

Effect of Quorum Sensing Molecules on the Quality of Bacterial Nanocellulose Materials.

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) biofilms, produced by various bacterial species, such as Gluconacetobacter xylinus, represent a highly promising multifunctional material characterized by distinctive physiochemical properties. These biofilms have demonstrated remarkable versatility as nano biomaterials, finding extensive applications across medical, defense, electronics, optics, and food industries. In contrast to plant cellulose, BNC biofilms exhibit numerous advantages, including elevated purity and crystallinity, expansive surface area, robustness, and excellent biocompatibility, making them exceptional multifunctional materials. However, their production with consistent morphological properties and their transformation into practical forms present challenges. This difficulty often arises from the heterogeneity in cell density, which is influenced by the presence of N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) serving as quorum sensing signaling molecules during the biosynthesis of BNC biofilms. In this study, we employed surface characterization methodologies including scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy to characterize BNC biofilms derived from growth media supplemented with varying concentrations of distinct N-acyl-homoserine lactone signaling molecules. The data obtained through these analytical techniques elucidated that the morphological properties of the BNC biofilms were influenced by the specific AHLs, signaling molecules, introduced into the growth media. These findings lay the groundwork for future exploration of leveraging synthetic biology and biomimetic methods for tailoring BNC with predetermined morphological properties.

Optimizing Portfolio Allocation in the Indian Defense Sector: A Python-Based Approach

This paper presents a detailed analysis of portfolio construction strategies aimed at maximizing risk-adjusted returns for investors, utilizing Python-based methodologies. By leveraging historical data on stock returns and risks, a meticulous selection process identified 5 stocks with superior risk-return profiles, outperforming the dataset's average measures with higher returns and lower risks. The selected stocks from the defense industry formed the foundation of an optimal portfolio designed to minimize sector-specific risks while maximizing growth potential. Through rigorous portfolio optimization techniques, including Markowitz's mean-variance optimization, an optimal portfolio allocation was identified with a return of 62.40% and volatility of 27.74%. Insights from the study provide valuable perspectives for investors seeking realistic and sustainable wealth accumulation strategies. The research also highlights future avenues for exploration, such as integrating alternative asset classes, incorporating behavioral finance insights, and leveraging advancements in risk management technologies. This study contributes to advancing portfolio theory and offers practical guidance for investment decision-making.This study demonstrates the effectiveness of Python in financial analysis and portfolio optimization while furthering the theory of portfolios and providing valuable guidance for making investment decisions. Keywords: Returns, Risk, Volatility, Optimal Portfolio Construction, Defense Sector, Markowitz Portfolio Theory,

Developing Egypt's defense industry from 2010 to 2023

Subject. The article deals with the balance of power in the Middle East, the dynamics of the world arms market. Objectives. The study aims to analyze the impact of the defense industry on the level of employment, assessment of prospects for cooperation between Egypt and developed countries in the field of global security. Methods. The study draws on methods of comparative, structural, and logical analysis. Results. Cooperation with economically developed countries strengthens Egypt's defense industry. The higher the country's gross domestic product, the more funds the government can allocate to the development of the defense industry. Conclusions. Despite Egypt's growing capabilities in the production of military equipment, the country's economy remains dependent on external supplies.

Understanding the Ethical Issues of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs): A Blessing or the Beginning of a Dystopian Future?

In recent years, scientific discoveries in the field of neuroscience combined with developments in the field of artificial intelligence have led to the development of a range of neurotechnologies. Advances in neuroimaging systems, neurostimulators, and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs)are leading to new ways of enhancing, controlling, and "reading" the brain. In addition, although BCIs were developed and used primarily in the medical field, they are now increasingly applied in other fields (entertainment, marketing, education, defense industry). We conducted a literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to provide background information about ethical issues related to the use of BCIs. Among the ethical issues that emerged from the thematic data analysis of the reviewed studies included questions revolving around human dignity, personhood and autonomy, user safety, stigma and discrimination, privacy and security, responsibility, research ethics, and social justice (including access to this technology). This paper attempts to address the various aspects of these concerns. A variety of distinct ethical issues were identified, which, for the most part, were in line with the findings of prior research. However, we identified two nuances, which are related to the empirical research on ethical issues related to BCIs and the impact of BCIs on international relationships. The paper also highlights the need for the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure the ethical development and use of this technology and concludes with several recommendations. The principles of bioethics provide an initial guiding framework, which, however, should be revised in the current artificial intelligence landscape so as to be responsive to challenges posed by the development and use of BCIs.

Co-sintering characteristics of W-Re pre-alloyed powder and Ni, Fe

Tungsten (W) heavy alloys (WHAs) have unique mechanical properties and are widely used in the national defence and military industries. Adding Re to WHAs can produce a good “Re effect” and improve their performance. However, the solid solubility of Re in W particles was limited in traditional sintering processes, which limited its application. This study prepared W-Re solid solution powder by pre-alloying (mechanical ball milling) and W-Re-Ni-Fe alloy with an ultimate tensile strength of 1.05 GPa by co-sintering W-Re solid solution powder with Ni and Fe powders. At the same time, the diffusion path of the Re element in WHAs and its influence on the properties of W particles and matrix phase were determined. The addition of Re can improve the strength and hardness of the alloys but hinder the dissolution and precipitation process of W in the matrix phase, weakening the W-matrix interface, and the ductility of the alloy ultimately decreases. Therefore, it is expected to enhance the interdiffusion reaction between W particles and the matrix phase by regulating the composition of the matrix phase, thereby achieving a synergistic improvement in the strength and toughness of WHAs.

Effect of production angle on low cycle fatigue performance of 3D printed auxetic Re-entrant sandwich panels

This study explores the static and fatigue behavior of re-entrant sandwich structures fabricated via 3D printing to assess their energy dissipation capability and durability. Various core structures of sandwich panels with different angles are considered for analysis. The shells, cores, and the entire sandwich structures are manufactured using polylactic acid (PLA) material. A combination of numerical simulations and experimental tests were employed to evaluate the energy absorption capacity and stiffness of re-entrant sandwich structures. Initial mechanical properties of the core structures were obtained through static tensile testing and the experimental fatigue analysis was carried out by using an Instron 8871 servo hydraulic test device, following the principles of the three-point bending test. The results of both static and fatigue analyses evaluated and the energy absorption capacity of the structures increases with increase in production angles. FEM and experimental results are compared and both results are in good agreement with eachother. Additionally, affect of changes in the geometry of re-entrant sandwich panels evaluated in terms of Young's Modulus and Poisson's ratio. The improved structures characterized by a negative Poisson's ratio hold significant innovation potential, especially in the defense and automotive industries, through the integration of various topological research findings.