Asgarnieu
31-05-2008, 05:56
AG-1 “Venom” Rotorless Advanced Attack Gunship
http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i65/Asgarnieu/AG-1Venom.png
Artist’s impression of the AG-1
The AG-1 is an advanced rotorless attack gunship capable of providing close air support, long-range patrol, anti-aircraft, anti-tank, and ship-borne operations. The Venom basically provides helicopter-based duties without the use of a helicopter. In addition to its rotorless nature, it is capable of extremely high speeds in comparison of that which traditional helicopters are capable of.
The AG-1 was created by AMIndustries, LLC to replace older airframes and provide a newer mode of air attack.
HISTORY
The AG-1 started life as the XAG-01 Program commissioned by the Asgarnian Army and Marines. The aircraft was designed to replace the aging AH-64-based fleet of attack helicopters. The Army and Marines had several key points leading to the desired replacement of the AH-64-based fleets:
1) Loud engine and rotors
2) Large, bulky airframe
3) Poor airspeed
4) Highly visible to RADAR
5) Highly visible to the naked eye
6) Lack of versatility in regards to new weaponry
AMIndustries began work on a highly controversial airframe. The controversy stemmed from traditionalist designers wanting a rotor-driven aircraft. Younger designers, seeing the possibilities of a jet-driven airframe wanted an experimental powerplant for the vehicle. A vote of the head staff, designers, and other company specialists went to the new, experimental powerplant.
Taking the airframe design from the cancelled RAH-66 “Comanche,” the designers noted the aircraft’s unique airframe and body.
After twenty-two month’s work, the Army, Marines, and heads of the design team approved the design. The first flight model was produced on 8 January 2007 and its first flight was on 15 January 2007. Its engines, airframe, control surfaces, and electronic components held up during the rigorous test flight. On 25 January 2007, the aircraft’s weapon pylons were loaded with mock equipment to simulate the loading and weight of real ordinance on the aircraft. During the test flight, the right pylon wing was torn off, resulting in an emergency landing. With the weakness revealed, the design team created a new pylon system that was 200% stronger than the previous, resulting in a successful test evaluation on 4 March 2007.
The first live-fire test of the weapons system was on 12 May 2007. The test comprised of targeting, target locking and accuracy. The integral 27mm cannon’s accuracy was rated as 124/20/700; meaning out of 150 shots, 124 landed on the 20’ x 20’ target at 700 yards distance. The same week, the pylon ordinance system was tested. Missiles and rockets were fired with stunning accuracy from high-speed flight, low-speed flight, and hovering speeds. The targeting computers held up very well and located all targets, processed only threats, and prompted the user to engage only threatening targets.
On 6 August 2007, the Army and Marines ordered 500 each to begin to phase out the AH-64-based fleet of helicopters.
SENSORS AND AVIONICS
The AG-1 is equipped with the Asgarnian AAN/AS-5C Complete Avionics System comprised of all the necessary avionics equipment. It’s component systems are classified for the system’s security and for the sake of the nation.
The AG-1 is fitted with the AAN/LRR-4Y Long-Range RADAR capable of over-the-horizon scanning of air and land targets, and terrain. It comprises two separate units, the top-mounted RADAR (A) and the forward-facing RADAR (B). The two RADAR’s separate images are combined into one three-dimensional image displayed in the cockpit. The terrain following part of the units is mounted on RADAR (B) and feeds into not only the display terminal in the cockpit but the autopilot system and terrain avoidance system.
The targeting and target threat detection system is provided by the AAN/TTT-19. It combines its functions with the AAN/LRR-4Y to detect targets on land and air. The system will target sea-based targets as well. The AAN/TTT-19 has a specialized receiver that detects other targeting systems from targets picked up by the RADAR system. When an enemy vehicle, aircraft, ship, or other system targets the AG-1, the AAN/LRR-4Y and the AAN/TTT-19 work together to pick up the targeting subject and lock on to it. Since the RADAR system and the targeting system process up to 10 targets at once, the targets are prioritized from most hazardous to least until they are destroyed or disabled.
ELECTRONICS
The AG-1 is equipped with a glass cockpit, fly-by-wire controls, and a H.U.D. that is displayed on the cockpit’s glass. This cockpit-wide H.U.D provides immediate target recognition, and instant threat visualization. The system also provides more area for critical information to be displayed, as well as a more effective visual warning system to notify and alert the pilot. The main gun is linked to the pilot’s helmet to provide line-of-sight targeting. In addition to the gun system, unguided rocket pods can be linked to a similar system, but with limited motion range. A triple-function camera serves the aircraft. It combines daytime television, nightvision and infrared scanning functions. The cockpit H.U.D. can display the nightvision and infrared modes directly, eliminating the need for the pilot or WSO to attempt to target enemies from a small screen.
CREW AMENITIES
The cockpit area is air-conditioned and the seats have heating functions. The seats are protected by Improved DragonSkin armor and are designed for maximum long-term comfort. The cockpit is spacious even by civilian standards, and has small storage spaces to accommodate personal effects.
WEAPONS SYSTEM
The AG-1 is equipped with a 3-barrel 27mm AMI GS-27A cannon with 2,000 rounds of internally stored ammunition. It is an air-cooled unit with a governed rate of 3,120 rounds per minute. The Venom can carry unguided rockets, most anti-tank missiles, the Air-to-Air Stinger system, and various other munitions. It is equipped with two flare dispensers towards the rear of the fuselage. To extend range, external fuel tanks can be fitted. The weapons are located on external pylons. There is an internal weapons bay that can carry bomblets and small bombs.
ARMORING
The Venom’s cockpit is protected by a titanium “bathtub” and the fuel tanks are protected by Improved DragonSkin armoring. The glass is bullet-resistant, capable of withstanding direct hits from 14.5mm ammunition. The rest of the fuselage is capable of resisting 20mm non-explosive ammunition due to a mixture of strong metals and classified fabric materials that prevent spalling. The aircraft can take multiple hits and still be airworthy.
POWERPLANT AND CONTROL SURFACES
The powerplant is supplied by two J270-PL Moveable Thrust turbojet engines swivel-mounted to the top of each side of the fuselage. The engines can move 360 degrees and are controlled by a dual-thumbstick system. The control surfaces are located on the rear tailplane and additional steering is provided courtesy of six small thrusters on the aircraft’s body. The thrusters provide extremely effective high-speed maneuvering and control of the aircraft.
STATISTICAL INFORMATION
Manufacturer: AMIndustries, LLC
Length: 52 Feet, 2 Inches
Width: 9 Feet, 4 Inches
Height: 12 Feet
Armament:
-27mm AMI GS-27A Cannon
-Most anti-tank missiles
-Most unguided rockets
-Air-to-Air Stinger
-AIM-9X
-Flares
-External fuel tanks
Weight:
-Empty: 9,238 Pounds
-Combat: 13,200 Pounds
Propulsion: 2 J270-PL Moveable Thrust Turbojets
Crew: Two (Pilot, WSO)
Speed:
-Cruise: 400 Miles per Hour
-Max: 653 Miles per Hour
Vertical Rate of Climb: 1,150 Feet per Minute
Range: 420 Miles
-600 Miles with External fuel tanks
Cost:
-Single unit: $14,000,000.00 USD
-DPR: $10,000,000,000.00 USD
http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i65/Asgarnieu/AG-1Venom.png
Artist’s impression of the AG-1
The AG-1 is an advanced rotorless attack gunship capable of providing close air support, long-range patrol, anti-aircraft, anti-tank, and ship-borne operations. The Venom basically provides helicopter-based duties without the use of a helicopter. In addition to its rotorless nature, it is capable of extremely high speeds in comparison of that which traditional helicopters are capable of.
The AG-1 was created by AMIndustries, LLC to replace older airframes and provide a newer mode of air attack.
HISTORY
The AG-1 started life as the XAG-01 Program commissioned by the Asgarnian Army and Marines. The aircraft was designed to replace the aging AH-64-based fleet of attack helicopters. The Army and Marines had several key points leading to the desired replacement of the AH-64-based fleets:
1) Loud engine and rotors
2) Large, bulky airframe
3) Poor airspeed
4) Highly visible to RADAR
5) Highly visible to the naked eye
6) Lack of versatility in regards to new weaponry
AMIndustries began work on a highly controversial airframe. The controversy stemmed from traditionalist designers wanting a rotor-driven aircraft. Younger designers, seeing the possibilities of a jet-driven airframe wanted an experimental powerplant for the vehicle. A vote of the head staff, designers, and other company specialists went to the new, experimental powerplant.
Taking the airframe design from the cancelled RAH-66 “Comanche,” the designers noted the aircraft’s unique airframe and body.
After twenty-two month’s work, the Army, Marines, and heads of the design team approved the design. The first flight model was produced on 8 January 2007 and its first flight was on 15 January 2007. Its engines, airframe, control surfaces, and electronic components held up during the rigorous test flight. On 25 January 2007, the aircraft’s weapon pylons were loaded with mock equipment to simulate the loading and weight of real ordinance on the aircraft. During the test flight, the right pylon wing was torn off, resulting in an emergency landing. With the weakness revealed, the design team created a new pylon system that was 200% stronger than the previous, resulting in a successful test evaluation on 4 March 2007.
The first live-fire test of the weapons system was on 12 May 2007. The test comprised of targeting, target locking and accuracy. The integral 27mm cannon’s accuracy was rated as 124/20/700; meaning out of 150 shots, 124 landed on the 20’ x 20’ target at 700 yards distance. The same week, the pylon ordinance system was tested. Missiles and rockets were fired with stunning accuracy from high-speed flight, low-speed flight, and hovering speeds. The targeting computers held up very well and located all targets, processed only threats, and prompted the user to engage only threatening targets.
On 6 August 2007, the Army and Marines ordered 500 each to begin to phase out the AH-64-based fleet of helicopters.
SENSORS AND AVIONICS
The AG-1 is equipped with the Asgarnian AAN/AS-5C Complete Avionics System comprised of all the necessary avionics equipment. It’s component systems are classified for the system’s security and for the sake of the nation.
The AG-1 is fitted with the AAN/LRR-4Y Long-Range RADAR capable of over-the-horizon scanning of air and land targets, and terrain. It comprises two separate units, the top-mounted RADAR (A) and the forward-facing RADAR (B). The two RADAR’s separate images are combined into one three-dimensional image displayed in the cockpit. The terrain following part of the units is mounted on RADAR (B) and feeds into not only the display terminal in the cockpit but the autopilot system and terrain avoidance system.
The targeting and target threat detection system is provided by the AAN/TTT-19. It combines its functions with the AAN/LRR-4Y to detect targets on land and air. The system will target sea-based targets as well. The AAN/TTT-19 has a specialized receiver that detects other targeting systems from targets picked up by the RADAR system. When an enemy vehicle, aircraft, ship, or other system targets the AG-1, the AAN/LRR-4Y and the AAN/TTT-19 work together to pick up the targeting subject and lock on to it. Since the RADAR system and the targeting system process up to 10 targets at once, the targets are prioritized from most hazardous to least until they are destroyed or disabled.
ELECTRONICS
The AG-1 is equipped with a glass cockpit, fly-by-wire controls, and a H.U.D. that is displayed on the cockpit’s glass. This cockpit-wide H.U.D provides immediate target recognition, and instant threat visualization. The system also provides more area for critical information to be displayed, as well as a more effective visual warning system to notify and alert the pilot. The main gun is linked to the pilot’s helmet to provide line-of-sight targeting. In addition to the gun system, unguided rocket pods can be linked to a similar system, but with limited motion range. A triple-function camera serves the aircraft. It combines daytime television, nightvision and infrared scanning functions. The cockpit H.U.D. can display the nightvision and infrared modes directly, eliminating the need for the pilot or WSO to attempt to target enemies from a small screen.
CREW AMENITIES
The cockpit area is air-conditioned and the seats have heating functions. The seats are protected by Improved DragonSkin armor and are designed for maximum long-term comfort. The cockpit is spacious even by civilian standards, and has small storage spaces to accommodate personal effects.
WEAPONS SYSTEM
The AG-1 is equipped with a 3-barrel 27mm AMI GS-27A cannon with 2,000 rounds of internally stored ammunition. It is an air-cooled unit with a governed rate of 3,120 rounds per minute. The Venom can carry unguided rockets, most anti-tank missiles, the Air-to-Air Stinger system, and various other munitions. It is equipped with two flare dispensers towards the rear of the fuselage. To extend range, external fuel tanks can be fitted. The weapons are located on external pylons. There is an internal weapons bay that can carry bomblets and small bombs.
ARMORING
The Venom’s cockpit is protected by a titanium “bathtub” and the fuel tanks are protected by Improved DragonSkin armoring. The glass is bullet-resistant, capable of withstanding direct hits from 14.5mm ammunition. The rest of the fuselage is capable of resisting 20mm non-explosive ammunition due to a mixture of strong metals and classified fabric materials that prevent spalling. The aircraft can take multiple hits and still be airworthy.
POWERPLANT AND CONTROL SURFACES
The powerplant is supplied by two J270-PL Moveable Thrust turbojet engines swivel-mounted to the top of each side of the fuselage. The engines can move 360 degrees and are controlled by a dual-thumbstick system. The control surfaces are located on the rear tailplane and additional steering is provided courtesy of six small thrusters on the aircraft’s body. The thrusters provide extremely effective high-speed maneuvering and control of the aircraft.
STATISTICAL INFORMATION
Manufacturer: AMIndustries, LLC
Length: 52 Feet, 2 Inches
Width: 9 Feet, 4 Inches
Height: 12 Feet
Armament:
-27mm AMI GS-27A Cannon
-Most anti-tank missiles
-Most unguided rockets
-Air-to-Air Stinger
-AIM-9X
-Flares
-External fuel tanks
Weight:
-Empty: 9,238 Pounds
-Combat: 13,200 Pounds
Propulsion: 2 J270-PL Moveable Thrust Turbojets
Crew: Two (Pilot, WSO)
Speed:
-Cruise: 400 Miles per Hour
-Max: 653 Miles per Hour
Vertical Rate of Climb: 1,150 Feet per Minute
Range: 420 Miles
-600 Miles with External fuel tanks
Cost:
-Single unit: $14,000,000.00 USD
-DPR: $10,000,000,000.00 USD